Team Goemkarponn
XELVONA: In a coordinated crackdown, the Quepem Mamlatdar, Department of Mines, and Curchorem Police uncovered a major illegal sand extraction operation being run under the guise of a fisheries unit in Xelvona. The raid, conducted at the premises of Ocean Dew Fisheries Pvt. Ltd., revealed industrial sand mining activities in clear violation of environmental and mining regulations.
Authorities found no signs of legitimate fishery operations. Instead, they discovered a fully functional sand extraction setup, including high-capacity industrial suction pumps. Officials suspect the racket had been operational for an extended period, masked by the company’s registration as a fisheries enterprise.
Upon arrival, officers encountered resistance from labourers at the site, who claimed they had been locked inside the premises and that only the owner held the keys. Police were forced to break open the gate, following which several workers fled the scene.
The Mines Department has since initiated the process of sealing all equipment and confiscating the stockpile of sand found at the location. An investigation is underway to trace all individuals involved and determine the scale and duration of the illegal operation.
“This case is a stark example of how commercial licenses are being misused for unlawful resource extraction,” a senior official stated. “It not only violates environmental laws but also raises serious concerns about labour conditions at such sites.”
The incident has sparked renewed concern about unchecked sand mining in Goa, with authorities pledging stricter monitoring and legal action against offenders.
