Siliguri, 27th June: In a major crackdown against illegal sand smuggling, Matigara Police carried out two separate operations early Saturday morning, seizing a sand-laden truck and a tractor. One driver was arrested, while the tractor driver managed to escape.
The arrested truck driver has been identified as Shyamal Deb Singh, a resident of Matigara.
According to information, illegal sand was being transported from the Balason River. Acting on a tip-off, police launched an operation in the Shishabari area. During the check, a sand-laden truck was stopped and the driver was asked to produce valid documents, which he failed to provide. He was subsequently arrested and the vehicle was seized.
Shortly after, police conducted another raid and seized a sand-laden tractor. However, the driver managed to flee the scene upon spotting the police.
Both vehicles have been taken into custody and an investigation has been initiated. Police said strict action is being taken against illegal sand mining and transportation activities, which has reportedly caused panic among sand smugglers in the region.