CEC for CBI probe into ore export from Belekeri

The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) appointed by the Supreme Court on Thursday recommended a CBI inquiry into illegal export of huge quantities of iron ore from the Belekeri port in Uttar Kannada district.

The expert panel said that from January 1, 2009 to May 5, 2010, a total 88.06 lakh tonnes of iron ore was exported by 73 exporters against the permitted 38.32 lakh tonnes. This means, rest of the 49.84 lakh tonnes was illegally shipped out by these companies in the active connivance of government officials, the report observed. 

Noting that illegal iron ore was transported from Bellary district to Belekeri port by using five lakh trucks during 2009 to mid 2010, the panel said this was not possible without the connivance of officials, exporters and transporters.

The panel suggested that the CBI investigate four companies (those exporting five lakh and above), and conduct preliminary inquiry into 18 companies that exported 1 lakh to five lakh tonnes.

If the findings were serious, the CBI could go ahead with probe or else it can refer the cases to Karnataka Government for further action, the CEC said.

As for 51 companies that exported less than one lakh tonnes, the Karnataka Government can initiate the probe and take action against culprits.

The panel named four exporters who were allegedly found to have illegally exported 5 lakh tonnes and above iron ore. They are ILC Industries Ltd (9.86 lakh tonnes), Dream Logistics Company (India) Pvt Ltd (9.16 lakh tonnes), SB Logistics (7.74 lakh tonnes) and Shree Mallikarjuna Shipping Pvt Ltd (7.23 lakh tonnes).

The four companies exported 33.98 lakh tonnes from January 1, 2009 to May 31, 2010 from Belekeri Port. “These companies have also received receipt/transfer of money within and outside the country... the CBI probe may be ordered against all illegalities of these firms”, the panel said.

Extend probe

The panel also suggested that if the CBI required, it can extend its probe against other firms who exported iron ore prior to January 2009, including Swastik Steels Private Limited, Swastik Cement and Minerals, SMSK Mineral Trading Company, Eagle Traders, Manjunatheshwara Minerals, Saifa Minerals, Gem Laboratories Private Limited, and Greentex Mining Industries Limited. 

The CEC also suggested that the CBI investigate the case of illegal export of seized iron ore from Belekeri port. It also said the ongoing inquiry by CoD of Karnataka be stopped, and be handed over the central agency.