Bhubaneswar, June 20 -- A late Friday night crackdown on an alleged illegal sand mining operation at Terahal on the Bhargavi riverbed under Balanga police limits in Odisha'sPuri district led to the seizure of 18 sand-laden Hyva trucks, two excavators, and the detention of 10 persons.

The raid was carried out following allegations that illegal sand extraction had been continuing at the ghat for a long time.

Sources said the operation was led by a special team from Bhubaneswar. Balanga Police was later called to the spot and joined the operation.

During the raid, officials seized 18 Hyva trucks loaded with sand and two excavators allegedly being used for mining activities. Around 10 people present at the site were also taken into custody...