Intro
A major Lokayukta raid targeted illegal sand mining networks across Shivamogga district, seizing vehicles and sand stockpiles.
CH NEWS
Shivamogga
A massive Lokayukta operation targeting illegal sand mining networks was carried out across Shivamogga district, marking one of the largest crackdowns in its history. The raids covered more than 25 illegal sand storage and mining sites across Shivamogga, Bhadravathi, Tirthahalli, Hosanagara and Sagar taluks.
The operation was led by Lokayukta DySP Chandrashekhar with a team of over 12 officials. Acting on complaints of large-scale illegal extraction and storage of sand, the team identified multiple unauthorized stockpiles and seized evidence of ongoing illegal mining activities.
Officials said the action followed earlier enforcement efforts, including the seizure of over 80 truckloads of sand from various locations in Shivamogga rural areas under the supervision of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate. Despite repeated complaints submitted to district authorities and the Department of Mines and Geology, alleged illegal sand extraction had reportedly continued unchecked.
During the coordinated raids, Lokayukta teams inspected riverbank regions of the Tungabhadra, Bhadra and Sharavathi rivers, where illegal sand mining activities were suspected. Several locations, including Kudli, Hadonahalli, Mundalli, Tooduru and other villages, were searched as part of the operation.
Authorities also conducted inspections at the office of a senior Mines and Geology official in connection with alleged irregularities. Officials said search warrants had been issued as part of the investigation into the wider sand mining network.
More than 50 vehicles, including JCBs, tractors and trucks, were seized during the operation. Hundreds of metric tonnes of illegally stored sand were also confiscated.
The crackdown is expected to continue, with officials indicating that further searches and verification of documents will be carried out. The operation has sent a strong signal against illegal sand mining activities in the district, which have long been the subject of public complaints and allegations of administrative inaction.
BOX
Udupi
Karnataka Lokayukta Police conducted a surprise raid at the Udupi Urban Development Authority office in Udupi following complaints of prolonged file delays. The inspection, led by DySP Hala Moorthi Rao, began around 3 pm and continued late into the night with a team of inspectors and personnel. Officials found over 200 files pending at various stages of clearance, some reportedly delayed beyond the usual 15–20 day processing timeline. Authorities suspect possible irregularities, including procedural lapses or undue influence, though no conclusions have been reached. A detailed probe is underway, including review of records and staff statements. The raid has raised concerns about administrative efficiency and transparency across the authority system.