Accusing the local police of encouraging the sand mafia, a massive demonstration was staged outside the Mini Vidhana Soudha in Nagamangala in the district on Wednesday.
Residents of Pala Agrahara, Kotebetta, Kasuvinahalli, Hosahalli, Dondemadihalli and surrounding villages participated in the protest.
According to them, officials of several police stations were continuously supporting illegal sand mining activities. Instead of initiating measures to curb illegalities, they always harass and assault villagers and informants, the protesters said.
Senior police officials were urged to verify the mobile call lists of all police officials and transfer those who encourage the sand mafia.
