2000 teak logs seized from illegal godowns in Sribhumi
The operations were jointly conducted by teams from the Lowairpua and Dohalia forest range units, acting on directives from newly-appointed divisional forest officer Amal Kumar. Acting on specific inputs, the forest personnel raided the two godowns, both of which were found to be operating without valid trade licenses or the mandatory clearance from the forest department.
Sources said the illegal godowns are owned by Abdul Basit and Abdul Quddus.
Despite the massive seizure, no arrests have been made so far. Officials added that investigations are underway to ascertain the source of the timber and to track down others potentially involved in the illegal operation.
"We are committed to curbing timber smuggling and unauthorised trade in forest produce. Strict action will follow," said a senior forest official, who was part of the operation.
The seizure has raised serious questions about the rampant deforestation and unregulated timber trade in the region. Forest authorities are likely to issue notices to the owners and may initiate legal proceedings under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
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