Koppal: Five days after authorities launched an operation to tackle illegal sand mining at Hirehalla River in the taluk, an FIR is yet to be registered.The operation was launched after social media videos showed alleged sand mafia members, including associates of a local MLA, openly displaying their unlawful activities at an illegal sand extraction site at Hirehalla River near Hire Sindhogi in Koppal taluk.The videos triggered action from the department of mines and geology. Geologist Mohammad Riyaz, along with officials from the revenue, police, forest, and environment departments, led a raid on the Hirehalla riverbed. “More than 50 boats involved in illegal sand extraction were confiscated. Nevertheless, no earthmovers or excavators were discovered during the operation, leading to concerns that insiders might have alerted the sand mafia beforehand,” said activist Bhimesh Hallikeri, who has been combating illegal sand mining for 10 years.He claimed that the sand miners were working without the necessary legal permits. Several of the boats were said to be owned by individuals connected to the local Congress MLA.Geologist Riyaz notes that this is merely the beginning of enforcement efforts. Further seizures and arrests are expected. “This represents one of the most significant anti-sand mafia operations in Koppal’s history,” the officer remarked.About no FIR being filed to date, the geologist questioned who the FIR should be lodged against. “During the raid, no individuals were present, and no arrests occurred. Hence, we are waiting for someone to arrive and claim the confiscated boats,” he said.Dr Basavaraj Kyavatar, a member of the BJP state core committee, said it is well-known who is operating the illegal sand mining business in the area. “Elected representatives from the ruling party are implicated in this illegality and are stealing natural resources in daylight. However, the police and officials from the mines and geology department are hesitant to take action because of political pressure,” he said.The district BJP has submitted a petition to deputy commissioner Suresh Itnal and SP Ram L Arasiddi requesting action against illegal sand mining. The submission highlighted unauthorised sand extraction in Hire Sindogi, Alavandi, Kinnal and Ojanahalli in Koppal taluk.
