Illegal logging: Kelantan warns timber factories – break the law, face the axe
KOTA BARU: Tired of illegal logging in the state, the Kelantan government has warned licensed timber factory operators of severe repercussions should they get involved in such activities.
Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said any form of misconduct would not be tolerated.
He told the New Straits Times the state government took the issue seriously as it involved state and public assets.
Fadzli's warning followed the General Operations Force's (GOF) Op Khazanah raid on illegal timber factories in the state, leading to seizures of various items valued at about RM31.2 million on Monday.
Bernama reported that GOF Southeast Brigade commander Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid said the simultaneous raids were conducted at 1.30pm across four districts — Tumpat, Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah and Jeli.
"Eight officers and 65 personnel from the Southeast Brigade intelligence branch, 7th, 8th and 9th Battalions and the Strike Force, together with the Kelantan Forestry Department, were involved in the operation.
"A total of 39 people, including undocumented Myanmar workers, were detained while 5,537 of various types of forest timber, 25 units of heavy machinery, 93 wood-cutting tools and several processing machines were confiscated," he said yesterday.
Nik Ros Azhan said forest timber accounted for the largest portion of the seizures at about RM14.98 million, followed by wood-processing equipment worth RM11.75 million.
He said the offences uncovered included operating without valid licences under the National Forestry Act 1984, the Wood-Based Industries Enactment 1985, and violations under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
"All individuals detained and the seized goods have been handed over to the Kelantan Forestry Department and police for further action.
"Checks by the local authorities also revealed that several factories had valid rental documents, while those without licences will be subjected to legal proceedings."
Fadzli praised the enforcement authorities, especially GOF, for their action, adding that he hoped such incidents must not happen again.
He also confirmed that the state government, via the Forestry Department, had also received several other reports regarding illegal logging.
"Investigations are underway, and firm and serious action will be taken," he added.
Fadzli said the state government was waiting for a detailed report on the raids and seizures from GOF and the Forestry Department.
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