The Forest Department in Rayagada district carried out a surprise raid inside the Leliguma reserve forest, targeting Andhra‑based mineral mafia engaged in unlawful manganese extraction and smuggling.
During the operation, officials seized a JCB machine, a Hyva truck, and a motorcycle, while detaining four individuals linked to the racket. Sources revealed that the mafia had been entering the forest at night, using heavy machinery to dig out manganese ore and preparing consignments for transport across the border.
Acting on credible intelligence, the Forest Department had intensified patrolling in the area over the past week. On Wednesday night, patrol teams caught the culprits red‑handed while they were loading manganese into the Hyva truck. Despite attempts to flee, the accused were swiftly apprehended.
Rayagada Forest Ranger Anil Kumar Panigrahi confirmed that interrogation is underway to identify the wider network involved in this inter‑state smuggling racket. He stated that once the investigation concludes, the accused will be produced in court.
