Shillong, Feb 21: Continuing with its extensive enforcement operation against illegal rat-hole mining, the East Jaintia Hills district administration seized 17,322 metric tonnes of coal and confiscated 25.5 kg of explosives.
Additionally, the operations have resulted in the arrest of 22 individuals suspected of involvement in illegal coal mining and transportation.
The district has been at the centre of significant controversy due to illegal coal mining activities and especially after the Thangsko mine explosion that claimed at least 33 lives.
On the intervening night of February 20 and 21, police seized 12 trucks loaded with coal as part of the ongoing drive against unlawful mining and transport activities.
Over the course of this operation, 22 persons were arrested and 94 First Information Reports (FIRs) relating to illegal mining and transportation activities have been registered, Superintendent of Police Pankaj Kumar Rasgania said.
It may be mentioned that five teams of Executive Magistrates, police and officials from the Directorate of Mineral Resources (DMR) have been formed to crack down on illegal mining in the district.
