Ganderbal, Aug 5: Continuing its drive against illegal mining, Ganderbal Police on Wednesday seized 19 vehicles allegedly involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals across different parts of the district.

The seized vehicles include three tippers, 15 tractors and one JCB, which were intercepted within the jurisdictions of Police Station Ganderbal, Police Station Kangan and Police Station Gund.

According to police, the vehicles were found extracting and transporting mining material without valid authorization, in violation of the prescribed rules. The vehicles were seized on the spot, and the matter was referred to the Geology and Mining Department for further legal action.

The department subsequently imposed the prescribed penalties under the relevant provisions of law.

Reiterating its commitment to protecting natural resources, Ganderbal Police said the crackdown against illegal mining will continue and urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting such unlawful activities.