Karnataka: Cop on duty crushed to death by sand mafia's tractor

Kalaburagi: A Police Head Constable of Nelogi Police Station was killed when a tractor, transporting illegally-mined sand, ran over him in Narayanapura village of Kalaburagi district on Thursday night.

According to the Superintendent of Police for Kalaburagi district, Isha Pant, Head Constable Mayura Chauhan, and Constable Pramod were deputed for patrolling in the area due to multiple complaints of illegal sand mining. They were on duty for the past few days, actively working to curb the illegal mining activities.

On June 15, around 10.45 pm, the two noticed a speeding tractor carrying illegally-mined sand and tried to stop the vehicle by chasing it.  But the tractor hit the two-wheeler used by the police officials. While Mayura died on the spot, constable Pramod sustained injuries.

Special teams were formed to apprehend the culprit. The police have arrested Siddappa Karjagi, a resident of Narayanapura, who was driving the tractor.

"We are investigating the involvement of others and will ensure that the perpetrator of the crime faces appropriate punishment," the SP said.

A case under IPC sections 302, 333, 307, 379, 504 and 506 has been registered.

Meanwhile, Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development, and Panchayat Raj, who is also the Minister in-charge of Kalaburagi District, expressed shock and sorrow over the incident.

He asked the DCP and SP to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

The minister conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased police officer, assuring them that the government would provide suitable compensation.

"Despite issuing strict directives to the revenue and police departments to take strict action against illegal sand transportation in the district, the incident occurred. In light of this, I have instructed the concerned departments and the police to promptly initiate legal proceedings against those involved in illegal sand mining and transportation," Priyank Kharge said.