KOHAT: Deputy Commissioner Rahimullah Mehsud on Friday imposed Section 144 in Kohat to stop illegal placer gold mining in the district.

Officials said some individuals and groups had been parking heavy machinery, including excavators, near homes and residential areas close to suspected mining sites. The authorities said the machines indicated preparations for illegal gold extraction.

Despite repeated crackdowns in recent months, illegal mining continued because excavators were being hidden in populated areas. Officials warned that such unauthorized operations not only disturb public order but also cause significant losses to state resources.

Deputy Commissioner Mehsud said clear evidence showed that excavators are key to placer gold mining, and their presence in residential zones was helping illegal activities persist.

To tackle the issue, the DC banned the presence and parking of all types of excavators in the areas under Lachi, Shakardara, and Gambat police stations. The ban will remain in effect for 60 days.

Authorities warned that anyone violating the order will face legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The district administration urged citizens to cooperate with the order to maintain public peace, protect the environment, and safeguard state resources.

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