Police seize machinery and cash in illegal coal mining crackdown

Police investigators from the Tuzla Canton Ministry of Internal Affairs conducted a large-scale operation on September 12, 2026, targeting illegal coal exploitation and the black market for mineral resources in the Kalesija and Banovići areas.

Following court orders and under the supervision of the Tuzla Canton Cantonal Prosecutor's Office, authorities searched five locations. The operation resulted in the seizure of 16 pieces of heavy machinery, including excavators and freight vehicles used for exploitation, as well as various tools for manual coal excavation.

Law enforcement also confiscated raw brown coal and lignite, mobile phones, and 115,900 KM in various currencies suspected to be proceeds from illegal sales. Additionally, a pistol with ammunition and a gas pistol were seized. Reports regarding criminal offenses, including aggravated theft, will be filed against five suspects identified as S. T., A. M., A. R., M. K., and E. G.