Illegal sand extraction: boats, vehicles seized

The Bantwal police, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Rishikesh Sonawane, busted a illegal sand mining racket on the banks of River Phalguni at Badaga Bellur in Bantwal on Sunday and seized vehicles and machinery used for mining sand.

Acting on a tip off from Badaga Bellur beat member, the police led by ASP raided the spot.

All those engaged in illegal sand mining fled from the spot on seeing the police.

The police seized two traditional boats, one earth mover and nine tippers worth Rs 58 lakh from the spot.

All the seized vehicles and machinery have been handed over to the mines and geology department for further action, police said.