Govt to crack down on illegal mining

Authorities spring into action as mafia running rampant

PESHAWAR:

Strict action is to be taken under the Minerals Act against those illegally extracting gold and other resources from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's rivers.

This decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Peshawar Division Commissioner Riaz Khan Mehsud. The moot focused on preventing the illegal extraction of gold and other minerals from rivers.

In addition to stringent action against the individuals involved, the heavy machinery used in such activities will also be confiscated by the government.

The district administration and police have been instructed to stay in contact with the Minerals Department and form teams to take strict action against those illegally extracting gold and other minerals from rivers.

It has also been decided to file cases against them under the Minerals Act and the Criminal Procedure Code.

In light of the recent incident in the Khairabad area of Nowshera district, all those involved will be brought to justice, and strict action will be taken. This incident involved the destruction of the Additional Deputy Commissioner's vehicle, which was tossed into a deep ravine, and firing at the DSP and SHO of the area.

"Such mafias will not be allowed to usurp the public's rights, and those who harm public property and pit the government against the people will be held fully accountable," the decision warned.

"The public will be protected from such mafias, and those responsible for the incident will face the harshest penalties and be made to compensate for the damages."

In this regard, the provincial government will issue a formal tender on October 10, and contracts will be awarded to those meeting the rules and regulations. Contractors will also be required to employ local workers and use local machinery to extract gold and other minerals, ensuring employment opportunities for the population.