Phansidewa, 12th August: Police successfully seized two tractors loaded with sand, as well as one tractor laden with stones, in an operation carried out in the Murikhawa area of Danga Para within Phansidewa Block-III. Furthermore, authorities also arrested three tractor drivers involved in the illegal activity. The individuals have been identified as Haider Ali, Mohammad Zakir, and Mohammad Mokhtar, all of whom are residents of Murikhawa.
Despite the directives issued by the Green Tribunal prohibiting the extraction of sand and stones from the river, the sand mafia continues to engage in this unlawful practice. Operating both during the cover of darkness and in broad daylight, these illicit operators have been extracting sand from the river and engaging in smuggling operations.
Reportedly, the said three individuals involved were arrested for quarrying from the river without possessing the necessary legal documentation. They were presented before the Siliguri Divisional Court earlier today. Police are further investigating the matter.