Daijiworld Media Network - Moodbidri (SP)

Moodbidri, Dec 11: On the basis of complaints received about the operation of illegal blackstone mines and also functioning of crusher without any authority or permission at Magage Hittilu area in Puchamogaru village in the taluk, under the oral instructions of the deputy director of mines and geology department, geologist Vasudha K M raided the spot along with revenue officials and police personnel on December 8.

The raiding team found that H A Abdul Rehman had undertaken blackstone mining in survey No 76, 77 and 194 of Puchamogaru village. He had stolen about 7.504.85 metric tonnes of blackstone and stocked the same there. Lorries loaded with blackstones and machinery used to conduct mining were also found.

The illegally mined blackstone value has been estimated to be Rs 36,73,940. Vasudha has complained to the Moodbidri police that in addition to stealing blackstones, the concerned had cheated the government by not paying any royalty.