Illegal mining, especially of sand and other minerals, has been a long-standing issue in Karnataka, leading to significant environmental damage and loss of revenue. The police have taken aggressive steps to combat this illegal activity, which often involves organized smuggling networks. Through coordinated efforts with the forest and mining departments, the Karnataka Police have launched several crackdowns targeting illegal mining operations across the state. Investigations into these networks have revealed the involvement of local criminals and even organized syndicates that have been extracting minerals from protected areas and riverbeds.
The police have utilized modern surveillance tools, including drones, to monitor mining activities in remote areas and identify illegal miners. A strong emphasis has been placed on dismantling these smuggling networks, and those found guilty face stringent legal action. The police’s role extends to ensuring that environmental laws are strictly enforced, safeguarding both Karnataka’s natural resources and the livelihood of those who rely on legal mining operations. Public awareness campaigns have also been launched to educate citizens about the adverse effects of illegal mining on local ecosystems.