Rayagada Forest Raid Exposes Illegal Manganese Mining Racket

Rayagada: In a decisive crackdown, the Forest Department in Rayagada district unearthed a major illegal manganese mining racket operating inside the Leliguma reserve forest.

Acting on credible intelligence, officials launched a surprise raid and seized a JCB machine, a Hyva truck, and a motorcycle used in the illicit operations.

Four individuals were arrested during the raid.

Investigations revealed that the mafia, allegedly linked to Andhra Pradesh, had been entering the forest at night, deploying heavy machinery to extract manganese ore, and preparing consignments for cross‑border smuggling.

Forest Ranger Anil Kumar Panigrahi confirmed that interrogation of the accused is underway to trace the wider smuggling network.

The arrested individuals will be produced in court following completion of the investigation.

Authorities have intensified patrolling in vulnerable forest zones to prevent further exploitation of natural resources.

The crackdown marks a significant step in curbing illegal mining activities that threaten Odisha’s ecological balance.