Ranchi (Jharkhand) [India], November 5 (HBTV): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted extensive raids across approximately 20 locations in three states as part of an ongoing investigation into organized illegal stone mining activities in Jharkhand.

The raids targeted locations in Jharkhand (including three sites in Ranchi, one in Gumla, and 13 in Sahebganj), West Bengal (two sites in Kolkata), and Bihar (one site in Patna).

In a press release, the CBI stated that the raids resulted in the recovery of over INR 60 lakhs in cash, more than 1 kg of gold, 1.2 kg of silver, gold ornaments, mobile phones, 61 live cartridges (9mm), property sale deeds, documents related to investments and shell companies, agreements, and other incriminating materials.

The case was registered by the CBI on November 20, 2023, under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, the SC/ST Act, and the Jharkhand Mines and Minerals Concession Rules, based on a directive from the Jharkhand High Court dated August 18, 2023.

According to the CBI press release, "The CBI had registered the instant case on 20/11/2023 under sections 120B r/w 34, 379, 323, 500, 504 & 506 of IPC, section 27 of the Arms Act, section 3(1)(5) of the SC/ST Act, and section 4/54 of Jharkhand Mines & Minerals Concession Rules 2004 based on the directions of the Hon'ble High Court of Jharkhand at Ranchi, as per the order dated 18/08/2023."

Investigations revealed that large-scale illegal mining activities in Sahebganj district allegedly caused significant losses to the government, primarily through unpaid royalties and violations of mining laws. Field investigations suggest that key individuals and entities were allegedly involved in the operation, using various methods to conceal their activities and divert illicitly obtained resources and money.

Initial findings indicate that these individuals and entities employed several techniques to cover up their illegal activities. The ongoing investigation has provided evidence linking key people and firms involved in facilitating and profiting from these illicit operations.

Raids conducted on November 5 targeted the premises of suspects identified through the ongoing investigations.

The CBI continues to probe the involvement of these individuals and organizations as the investigation progresses.   

(ANI)