JAMMU: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted Joint Surprise Checks (JSCs) across Udhampur and Reasi districts targeting alleged illegal mining operations, officials said.
The action was initiated following complaints regarding large-scale illegal extraction of minerals in parts of the Jammu Division. According to official sources, preliminary inputs suggested a possible nexus between certain mineral bidders and officials of the concerned departments, which allegedly allowed such activities to continue unchecked.
Specialised ACB teams led by gazetted officers carried out coordinated inspections at multiple stone crushing units in the two districts. During the checks, officials conducted searches and seized electronic devices, records and other documents for further scrutiny.
Officials said several suspected forged ‘Form-A’ transit documents were recovered from the sites inspected. Authorities are examining these documents to ascertain their authenticity and to determine the extent of alleged violations.
During the inspections, stone crushing units were also found operating in violation of prescribed norms and conditions, officials said, adding that environmental compliance aspects are being examined as part of the investigation.
The ACB stated that further inquiry is underway based on the material seized during the operation.
