Palamu Police Uncover Illegal Mobile Phone Refurbishing Operation in Panki
In a significant crackdown on illicit electronics trade, the Panki police in Palamu district have exposed a covert mini-factory dedicated to refurbishing and assembling mobile phones without proper authorization. The operation, conducted on Monday, led to the apprehension of two local youths involved in this unauthorized business.
Arrests and Legal Action
The individuals taken into custody have been identified as Vikalp Kumar Singh, aged 30, and Ranjit Kumar, aged 24, both residents of Panki block. Following their arrest, they were remanded to judicial custody. Authorities have filed charges against them under multiple legal provisions, including:
- Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- The Trade Mark Act
- The Environment Conservation Act
Palamu Superintendent of Police Reeshma Ramesan emphasized the illegal nature of their activities, stating, "They had no licence for refurbishing and assembling mobile phones. They did it clandestinely."
Seizure of Evidence and E-Waste
During the raid, police officials confiscated a substantial amount of equipment and materials, highlighting the scale of the operation. The seized items include:
- 112 pieces of motherboards
- 335 mobile phones from two prominent brands
- Three bags filled with e-waste material, underscoring the environmental impact of such practices
SP Ramesan noted the severity of the situation, adding, "Such was the enormity of this malpractice that police recovered three bags of e-waste material."
Operation Details and Sales Network
Investigations revealed that the accused were engaged in refurbishing discarded mobile phones, some of which dated back to 2017 from a company that had disposed of keypad models. These phones were recycled and repackaged into attractive packets, then sold at arbitrary prices set by the operators.
The illicit business had established sales outlets in Daltonganj as well. Police have identified several shops in the area for further scrutiny and potential action, indicating a broader network of distribution.
Legal Implications and Corporate Involvement
When questioned about whether the affected mobile phone brands were informed about this unauthorized operation, SP Ramesan clarified the legal boundaries. She explained, "Our officers are working on it. It's for the companies to initiate a criminal case under the Copyright Act. Police can't do this." This statement highlights the role of corporate entities in pursuing copyright violations, while law enforcement focuses on other aspects of the case.
The bust underscores ongoing challenges in regulating electronic waste and counterfeit goods in the region, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and public awareness.
