Major Police Operation in Jodhpur Nets 15 Suspects and 12 Vehicles in Gravel Mafia Crackdown
In a significant enforcement action targeting the illegal gravel trade, Jodhpur police have arrested 15 people and confiscated a total of 12 vehicles over the past two days. The operation, aimed at dismantling the so-called "gravel mafia," involved the seizure of 10 transport vehicles and two escort vehicles used in the illicit transportation of gravel from riverbeds in neighboring districts to Jodhpur.
Wednesday's Raid: Seven Arrests and Multiple Vehicle Seizures
According to a senior police official, the crackdown began on Wednesday with the interception of four dumpers loaded with gravel, along with a car that was escorting them. These vehicles were en route from Rohet in Pali district to Jodhpur. The gravel had been illegally extracted from a river in Rohet. A coordinated effort involving teams from two police stations and a special task force led to the arrest of seven individuals involved in this operation.
The official stated, "All these dumpers were loaded with gravel from a river in Rohet and were heading to Jodhpur. Our teams successfully intercepted them, resulting in the arrests."
Thursday's Continued Action: Eight More Arrests and Additional Seizures
The police continued their vigorous campaign on Thursday, conducting two separate operations that resulted in the seizure of four trailers and two dumpers, all laden with gravel. In these actions, eight more persons were taken into custody. Additionally, a Scorpio vehicle, which was escorting the transport vehicles, was also seized.
Investigations revealed that these vehicles had transported gravel from Samdari in Balotra district into Jodhpur for supply. An official explained, "We intercepted all these vehicles on the highway in Jodhpur and requested permits or other relevant documents for gravel transportation. None of them could provide any legal documentation."
Shift in Mafia Tactics Due to Increased Police Monitoring
The police highlighted that due to stringent monitoring and crackdowns on illegal gravel mining and supply within Jodhpur, the gravel mafia has adapted its strategies. They are now sourcing gravel from rivers and riverbeds in surrounding districts, such as Pali and Balotra, where rivers are present, and transporting it to Jodhpur at inflated prices.
This two-day operation underscores the authorities' commitment to curbing illegal mining activities and disrupting the networks that profit from environmental degradation and unlawful trade. The arrests and seizures mark a critical step in addressing the persistent issue of gravel mafia operations in the region.
