Bantwal: District commissioner has intensified raids on sand mafia in the district. Again on Tuesday the revenue officials team led by assistant commissioner Dr Ashok raided Mani area and seized 36 lorries and handed over to police.

In Sajipamunnur, officials raided illegal sand mining transporters and seized 12 lorries.

At B C Road junction too, officials seized 24 lorries involved in sand transportation.

In the operation Bantwal tahshildar Purandhar Hegde, revenue officer Narayana Poojary and village accountant Tauseef were present.

As per the demands made by the public, the district commissioner had warned strict action against those engaged in the sand mafia.

Despite the ban and the expiry of the temporary permits issued, divers loading sand onto boats on major rivers in Dakshina Kannada is a common sight.