Kohat: The District Administration Kohat on Saturday categorically rejected reports circulating on social media that the Deputy Commissioner has permitted mining activities in forest areas, terming the claims baseless and unverified.
According to an official clarification issued by the district administration, no individual or organisation has been authorised to carry out illegal mining in forest areas. The administration reiterated that mining and all other unlawful activities in protected forest areas would not be allowed under any circumstances.
The administration urged citizens to avoid believing or sharing unverified information circulating on social media and advised them to verify such reports through official government channels.
The statement further clarified that all placer gold mining activities following the cancellation of previous leases are illegal unless fresh leases are formally awarded by the government. Strict legal action would be taken against individuals or organisations found involved in illegal mining or related activities, it added.
