Udupi: The Udupi Mines and Geological Survey Department filed a private complaint in Udupi JMFC court on Monday, May 18, against three persons who were involved in the illegal sand dredging case in Udupi's Swarna River.
On May 16, Lokayukta police raided the Swarna River illegally and directed the officials of the Department of Mines and Geology to file a case.
The sand was recovered along with two tippers, two Hitachi and one JCB during the raid. Mines and geology department Geological scientist Mahesh has filed a private complaint in the Udupi court against Mangalore Planner India Private Limited, which has been leased by Udupi Municipal Corporation, to Vinay Kumar and two owners of seized vehicles.
Illegal sand dredging in the Swarna River under way. Former minister Pramod Madhwaraj had alleged that the ruling party leaders were giving it a go. Former chief minister Siddaramaiah, who tweeted about this, called for an impartial investigation into the illegal sand trafficking.
A man who complained to the Lokayukta about sand smuggling in the Swarna River has been threatened. Siddaramaiah has requested that police security be provided immediately.