STF Uncovers Illegal Mining Syndicate in Fatehpur, UP; Officials Implicated

Fatehpur, UP: In a major crackdown on Wednesday, the Special Task Force (STF) exposed a syndicate involving officials from the Transport and Mining Departments in Fatehpur. The gang reportedly allowed overloaded limestone and gravel-laden trucks to operate in collusion with departmental authorities.

Based on the STF’s investigation, a complaint has been filed at Thariyanv Police Station against six individuals, including Fatehpur’s Mining Officer, his gunner, and a locator linked to the illegal operation.

Underground Network and Arrests

Authorities have registered cases under relevant sections, arresting two key suspects. The crackdown has created a stir within the mining department, while others involved in the illicit operation have reportedly gone underground.

Inspector Deepak Singh of STF Lucknow confirmed that the complaint alleges a long-running collusion, where officials and departmental staff allowed overloaded trucks to pass in return for bribes of ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per vehicle, causing the government millions of rupees in losses.

Syndicate Exposed

Acting on tip-off information, STF teams and Thariyanv police arrested locators Dhirendra Singh and Vikram early Wednesday. During interrogation, the suspects revealed the modus operandi: overloaded trucks would bypass checks once bribes were paid. Even if trucks were caught, they were often released without any action.

Additionally, a stolen, overloaded limestone truck was seized, along with two Android mobile phones linked to the syndicate.

Officials and Drivers Involved

The arrested suspects disclosed that the operation involved Mining Officer Deshraj Patel, his gunner Raju, and RTO drivers Bablu Patel and Mukesh Tiwari.

SHO Rajendra Singh confirmed that cases have been filed against the six individuals under the Mining & Minerals Act, Prevention of Corruption Act, and other relevant provisions, leading to the arrest of two accused.

This STF action highlights a major anti-corruption drive in Fatehpur’s mining sector, targeting officials colluding in large-scale illegal extraction and transportation.