Mining scam: SIT identifies witnesses to nail politicians
The SIT has stated that it has identified some witnesses who can give crucial corroborative evidences.
The Spesial Investigation Team (SIT) of Goa police probing the illegal mining scam has prima facie found that arrested ore trader Kancha Gaunder in connivance with some politicians kept excavating and selling iron ore illegally worth crores of rupees.
The SIT has stated that it has identified some witnesses who can give crucial corroborative evidences. On the basis of the files obtained from the mining department, it revealed that the department in 2008 itself had reported that illegal excavation of iron ore being carried out at rejected mines at Paicul Compro in Sattari Taluka. But, neither the mining department nor the Goa government took any action to stop the illegality.
It further stated that ore theft committed by Gaunder was in connivance with politicians and mining lease holders. Though, Gaunder has not provided the details about the nexus, SIT has claimed that they have identified witnesses.
SIT's say against Gaunder's plea is also relevant against the anticipatory bail filed by Miner Arjun Salgaokar. The SIT has concluded that Gaunder illegally sold tons of iron ore from the Salgaonkar-owned mine at Dharbandora and rejected mines at Paicul Compro in Sattari taluka.