Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal
Bantwal, Sep 16: The Vittal police seized two lorries and booked four individuals in connection with the illegal transportation of laterite (red) stones in two separate incidents on the night of September 14.
Acting on reliable information about illegal laterite stone transportation from Kerala towards Kanyana, a team led by sub-inspector Ramakrishna intercepted a lorry (KA-21-D-0784) near Nellikatte junction in Karopadi village, Bantwal. Upon inspection, the police found that the red stones were being transported without any valid permits or documentation.
The police seized the vehicle and registered a case against the driver, Mohammed Taukir (26), a resident of Veerakambha, the lorry owner, Mohammed Simran, and an accomplice, Sajeer, who allegedly assisted in the illegal act. A case (Crime No 193/2026) has been registered at the Vittal police station under section 303(2) of the BNS, sections 4(1), 4(1A), and 21 of the MMDR Act 1957, and sections 3 and 44 of the Karnataka Minor Mineral Concession Rules 1994.
Later that same night, sub-inspector Ramakrishna detected another instance of illegal laterite stone transportation on the Kalladka-Kanhangad interstate highway via Kuddupadavu. A tipper lorry (KA-70-A-1926) operating without the required permits was intercepted and seized.
The police booked the accused, Chandresh (40), a resident of Kanyadi in Beltangady, under similar charges.
A case (Crime No 194/2026) has been registered at the Vittal police station, and further investigations are currently underway.