Panaji (Goa): After intense questioning into the illegal mining case, the special investigation team (SIT) has arrested Mine trader Kancha Gaunder for cheating the State to the tune of crores of rupees, damaging the environment and posing health hazards to the people living around the lease zone.

Gaunder, who is a registered trader with the State Mines Department is being investigated in the case that also has former chief minister Digambar Kamat under the scanner.

“Gaunder did not cooperate during the questioning… the bank details suggest crores of RTGS in his account from mining forms/individuals. He also paid in crores to mining lease holders as well as illegal suppliers of ore for purchase of iron ore and sold it to exporters thereafter. During the investigation, we also found that he had not filed returns for the iron ore trading which has ultimately resulted in to the State exchequer’s loss,” one of the investigating officers told this report.

The SIT stated that the Marginally Noted Accused will be instrumental in unearthing deep rooted controversy of the iron ore theft as he also allegedly excavated and transported iron ore from Valpoi mining lease, which is presently allegedly handled by Salgaonkar Mining Industries. Influential politicians and other individuals to Salgaonkar Mining Industries are also involved in this, as per the officer.He is presently remanded to 7 days of police custody for interrogation purpose.

About five persons including Kamat are on interim anticipatory bail. As many as 13 cases of multi crore mining scam are being investigated by the SIT, of which six are chargesheeted and trial underway. Several politicians from the ex-Congress led government, mining firms and contractors are under the radar.

Team TNV