Illegal stone mining: CBI conducts searches at 20 locations in three states

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has carried out searches at around 20 locations across three states — Jharkhand, West Bengal and Bihar — in a case linked to organised illegal stone mining. 
In Jharkhand, the raids were conducted at three places in Ranchi, one place at Gumla, and 13 places at Sahebganj. The agency sleuths also raided two places in Kolkata and one place in Patna. The raids are related to an ongoing investigation into organised illegal stone mining in Jharkhand.
A CBI press release dated November 5 revealed that over ₹60 lakh cash, gold weighing more than 1 kg, silver weighing 1.2 kg, gold ornaments, mobiles, 61 live 9mm cartridges, sale deeds related to properties, documents related to investments and Shell companies, agreement papers, and other incriminating documents were found in the raids.
The press release states, “The CBI had registered the instant case on 20/11/2023 u/s 120B r/w 34, 379, 323, 500, 504 & 506 of IPC, u/s 27 of Arms Act, U/s 3(1)(5) of SC/ST Act, and section 4/54 of Jharkhand Mines & Minerals concession Rules 2004 based on the directions of Hon’ble High Court of Jharkhand at Ranchi vide order dated 18/08/2023.”
The probe agency uncovered large-scale illegal mining activities in the Sahebganj district. The government suffered ‘substantial losses’ due to these illegal activities, which were compounded by unpaid royalties and the violation of mining laws.
“Field investigations suggest that key individuals and entities were allegedly involved in this operation using multiple methods to conceal their activities and divert illicitly obtained resources/money,” the release said.
The CBI concluded the involvement and nexus of key individuals and firms in the illegal mining operation. They used multiple methods to divert illicitly obtained materials, including precious metals and money. Investigations are ongoing on the premises of those who are suspected to have played a role in concealing the proceeds from illegal activities, the investigation agency said.