Two trucks carrying stolen iron ore with fake invoices from Odisha were seized near Hatgamharia in Jharkhand. The scam reveals a large illegal mining network supplying ore to steel plants. Former CM Madhu Koda criticized the Government’s inaction and called it a planned mineral loot.
A major illegal mining racket has come to light in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district, exposing the use of fake invoices to transport stolen iron ore from Odisha to various steel plants across the state. This case is raising serious questions about the control and accountability of mining operations in the region.
Two Trucks Intercepted at Hatgamharia Check-post
Around 20 days ago, two trailers loaded with iron ore were intercepted near the Hatgamharia railway gate. Upon inspection, mining officials found the documents presented by the truck drivers to be forged. These documents, supposedly issued by the Joda regional mining office in Odisha, were sent for verification and officially declared fake. According to the district’s mining officer Meghraj Tudu, the entire operation was based on forged challans. The trucks were seized and brought to Jhinkpani police station, where legal action has been initiated. The case has also been reported to the Deputy Commissioner, and the Forest Department has been alerted as the issue also involves protected forest zones.
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A Widespread Network, Not a One-District Case
The seized iron ore was reportedly on its way to steel plants in Kandra, Chandil, Gamharia, Ramgarh, and Giridih. This points towards a broader network of illegal mining and transportation that is not limited to one district but likely spans across state lines and involves multiple players. Sources suggest that the stolen iron ore is regularly funneled into legitimate operations, making it hard to detect unless rigorous checks are conducted. The use of fake documents enables these mining mafias to blend their illegal consignments with regular industrial transport.
Former Chief Minister Raises Alarm
Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda strongly criticized the incident, calling it a “well-organized loot of mineral resources” and a reflection of the administration’s failure. He recalled that during his tenure, he had intercepted trucks carrying illegal iron ore in Noamundi, but no serious action followed. Koda accused the Government and district administration of remaining silent and inactive, despite repeated cases of illegal mining. He claimed West Singhbhum is fast becoming a hub for not just illegal mining, but also illegal sand excavation, timber smuggling, and illicit liquor trade. He added that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has banned sand mining in several areas, yet the activity continues unchecked.
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Need for Stronger Action
This case has once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter surveillance, inter-state coordination, and stronger legal action against those involved in mining fraud. The use of forged documents to transport natural resources poses a serious threat to not only the state’s economy but also its environmental sustainability. While the mining department has taken timely action in this case, questions remain about the effectiveness of ongoing enforcement and the lack of follow-up in previous cases. The rise in illegal mining activities signals a potential breakdown of law and order in the mining sector.
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