₹1.60 crore seized in Vadodara illegal mining raid

VADODARA: In a major crackdown on the illegal mining network operating in Gujarat, the Mines and Minerals Department, with support from the local police, seized machinery and vehicles worth more than ₹1.60 crore during a surprise raid in Wakaneda village of Desar taluka. The action has sent shockwaves through the region’s alleged mineral mafia and signalled a tougher stance against illegal extraction of natural resources.

The raid was conducted on Friday evening after officials received specific intelligence about large-scale illegal mining activities on the outskirts of Wakaneda village.

During the operation, the team caught the alleged mining activity in progress and seized two Hitachi excavators and three dumpers that were allegedly being used to excavate and transport minerals illegally. All the vehicles and heavy machinery were confiscated on the spot.

A senior officer of the Mines and Minerals Department said, “The value of the seized machinery and vehicles exceeds ₹1.60 crore. We have launched a detailed investigation to identify everyone involved in the illegal mining network and trace where the illegally extracted minerals were being supplied.”

The officer added that legal proceedings have been initiated against the owners of the seized vehicles and the alleged masterminds under the provisions of the Mines and Minerals Act.

“Illegal exploitation of government resources will not be tolerated. Surprise inspections and enforcement drives will continue across the state to dismantle such networks,” the official said.

The department is now investigating the local links behind the operation and examining whether a larger mining syndicate was involved.

Officials believe the Vadodara illegal mining raid will act as a strong deterrent against illegal mining activities, while reaffirming the state’s commitment to protecting natural resources through stricter enforcement and sustained action against offenders.