SWABI (Istikhar Yousafzai): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has imposed a 60-day ban on illegal gold prospecting and mining activities in Swabi district under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1898, citing environmental and law and order concerns.
According to an official notification, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department KP ordered a complete prohibition on all unauthorised gold extraction and mining activities within the limits of Swabi district with immediate effect.
The decision was taken in response to increasing reports of illegal mining operations, which were causing environmental degradation, water contamination, land damage, public health risks, and disruption of law and order.
Under the order, no individual or entity will be permitted to carry out gold prospecting or mining without legal authorisation. Authorities have warned that in case of any violation, machinery, vehicles, tools, and other equipment involved will be confiscated.
Legal action will be taken against violators under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which carries penalties including fines, imprisonment, or both.
The district administration and police have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the ban and take all necessary measures to implement the order effectively.
