The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at 34 locations in six districts of Tamil Nadu on September 12, 2023, in connection with an illegal sand mining case. The searches included eight sand mining yards and the residential and business premises of several individuals, including S. Ramachandran, K. Rathinam, Karikalan, and their accomplices, as well as Auditor P. Shanmugaraj and officials of the Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department.
The ED initiated the investigation based on FIRs registered in various parts of Tamil Nadu alleging large-scale illegal mining of river sand and gravel quarries. Numerous complaints have also been registered with law enforcement agencies highlighting rampant illegal mining practices across the state.
During the searches, the ED seized incriminating documents, including diaries and bogus fake sale receipts with counterfeit QR codes, suggesting illegal sand sales. Evidence of bogus transactions and benami companies were also found. The ED also froze Rs. 12.82 crore and seized unaccounted cash for Rs. 2.33 crore, along with gold weighing 1024.6 grams worth Rs. 56.86 lakh. Further investigation is underway.
The ED’s raids are a significant development in the fight against illegal sand mining in Tamil Nadu. The practice has caused widespread environmental damage, including the degradation of riverine ecosystems and the loss of livelihoods for local communities. It is also a major source of corruption, as sand mining mafias often collude with government officials to circumvent regulations.
The ED’s investigation is expected to shed light on the extent of illegal sand mining in Tamil Nadu and the individuals and organizations involved. It is also hoped that the investigation will lead to the prosecution of those responsible and help to curb this harmful practice.
In addition to the environmental and social damage caused by illegal sand mining, it also has a significant economic impact. The sand mafia often underpays the government for mining rights, and they often sell sand at inflated prices to consumers. This can lead to increased costs for construction projects and other industries that rely on sand.
