Police have seized more than 2,400 metric tonnes of iron ore in raids conducted at two private industrial units in Ballari and neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, in connection with alleged illegal transportation from NMDC’s C-Block.
The matter came to light after Sandur police stopped a tipper lorry near Babayya Cross toll gate on January 16 and found it carrying iron ore without valid documents. Following a complaint from officials of the Department of Mines and Geology on January 17, a case was registered at Sandur police station under relevant provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Since the seized material was found to belong to NMDC, a Central public sector undertaking, Ballari Superintendent of Police Suman D. Pennekar ordered a detailed investigation. DSP Prasad Gokhale and Circle Inspector Maheshgowda were assigned to probe the case.
During interrogation, the driver, Tippeswamy from Nagalapur village in Chitradurga district, allegedly admitted that the iron ore had been illegally transported from NMDC’s C-Block. He also revealed that similar consignments had earlier been diverted to private factories in Ballari and Andhra Pradesh.
Based on his statement, police raided Sri Sai Balaji Sponge Iron India Pvt. Ltd. near Nirmalkallu in Andhra Pradesh and seized 1,050 metric tonnes of iron ore. Another search at Noble Ispat & Energies Ltd. near Sirivara village on the outskirts of Ballari led to the seizure of 1,437 metric tonnes.
Further investigation led to the seizure of two tipper lorries and the detention of two additional suspects, who reportedly admitted to transporting illegally mined ore to the same units.
Police officials said efforts are underway to trace other individuals involved in the racket, verify company records, and examine the GPS data of the vehicles used. The Superintendent of Police stated that the investigation is being conducted transparently and impartially and that all facts will be revealed soon.
Tippeswamy has been named as the main accused, while two others are being questioned. Initially, one lorry and about 20 metric tonnes of iron ore were seized during the interception.
The case has been registered under Sections 4(1), 4(1A), and 22 of the MMDR Act and Section 303(2) of the BNS at Sandur police station.