The coal mafias of Jharsuguda and Brajrajnagar are now residing temporarily in Hyderabad and Raipur following seizure of two coal-laden trucks by the Jharsuguda police last week.
Their links with the transport of coal illegally to various industries are now being investigated by police under direct supervision of Jharsuguda Superintendent of Police Umashankar Dash, who is keeping a close watch on their movements.
The mafias have turned millionaires overnight out of this business due to their links with politicians of the district. They give some portion of their earnings to these politicians to support their illegal activities.
On the other hand, the role of police in curbing the racket is also questionable by the public as some unscrupulous security officials of the MCl and the State Mines Department with help of police are promoting this business.
Since recently, an officer of Concast Steel is also under police scanner for his involvement in coal transport to other units.