Illegal Sand Mining Dumper Flees Check Post, Rams Govt Vehicle in Ahmedabad Chase
In a dramatic incident in Ahmedabad, a dumper suspected of transporting illegally mined sand fled a check post, dumped its load on the road, and attempted to ram a government vehicle during a high-speed chase on Monday. The case has escalated with the filing of a formal complaint by a mines supervisor, leading to significant legal penalties and police action.
Supervisor Files FIR After Dumper Evades Check Post
On Tuesday, Navya Sudish, a 24-year-old mines supervisor posted with the geology and mining department, lodged a complaint with the Pethapur police regarding the incident. According to the FIR, Sudish was on duty at the Piplaj check post along with two security guards when the dumper arrived around 3:30 PM. The vehicle, a white dumper without a number plate and loaded with sand, was signaled to stop but instead sped past the check post, ignoring the authorities.
Sudish immediately informed the royalty inspector and initiated a pursuit with her team. The chase intensified as the dumper driver allegedly raised the vehicle's hydraulic system near the K-7 Circle, releasing approximately 60 metric tonnes of sand onto the road before fleeing towards Randheja. This reckless act not only obstructed traffic but also highlighted the brazen nature of the illegal mining operation.
Attempted Ramming and Obstruction by Accomplices
As the pursuit continued, a second government vehicle attempted to intercept the dumper near Randheja. In a dangerous maneuver, the driver allegedly targeted this vehicle, trying to ram it before speeding off towards Kolavada at high velocity. The FIR also names Prakash Vanzara, who was allegedly traveling in a car without a number plate and obstructed the government vehicle during the chase, further complicating the situation.
Later, a man identified as Nagji Vanzara arrived at the police station and claimed ownership of the dumper, admitting involvement in illegal sand transportation. He allegedly urged officials not to file a complaint, but authorities proceeded with legal action, underscoring the seriousness of the offenses.
Legal Penalties and Police Action
Officials calculated a total penalty of Rs 4.3 lakh under the Gujarat Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Storage and Transportation) Rules, 2017, and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Police have registered offenses related to illegal mining, obstructing a public servant from performing their duty, and attempt to endanger lives. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in curbing illegal mining activities in the region and the risks faced by enforcement personnel.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which individuals involved in illegal sand mining will go to evade capture, endangering public safety and flouting environmental regulations. Authorities are continuing their investigation to ensure all perpetrators are held accountable under the law.
