In a significant crackdown on illegal tree felling, the Yamunanagar police have apprehended two individuals for the brazen theft of twenty valuable shisham trees from a cremation ground. The incident, which has stirred the local community, occurred in Manakpur village under the Chhachhrauli police station's jurisdiction.
Arrest Made During Routine Vehicle Check
The breakthrough came during a routine police check at Ledi Chowk on Wednesday night. A police team, already present at the location, stopped a suspicious pickup vehicle for inspection. Upon searching the vehicle, the officials recovered pieces of shisham wood, a type of rosewood known for its high commercial value.
The occupants of the vehicle, identified as Rahul and Shaukeen, both residents of Manakpur village, could not provide a satisfactory explanation for possessing the wood. Their evasive answers raised immediate red flags, leading the police to take both men into custody along with the vehicle used in the alleged crime.
Investigation Uncovers Cremation Ground Theft
Following the initial detention, a detailed investigation was launched. Police inquiries revealed that the recovered wood was not legally obtained. It was discovered that the duo had illegally cut and stolen 20 shisham trees from the land of a cremation ground (shamshan bhumi) located in their own village, Manakpur.
The police action was initiated based on a complaint filed by Block Development and Panchayat Officer (BDPO) Kartik Chauhan. The theft represents not just a significant economic loss due to the value of the timber but also a grave disrespect to a community space meant for final rites.
Accused Sent to Judicial Custody
After the investigation confirmed their involvement, a formal case was registered against Rahul and Shaukeen at the Chhachhrauli police station. The accused were subsequently produced before a local court, which ordered them to be remanded to judicial custody.
Chhachhrauli Station House Officer (SHO) Rohitash Singh confirmed the details of the arrest and the ongoing legal process. This arrest highlights the continued efforts by the Yamunanagar police to curb the illegal felling and smuggling of precious wood, which is often driven by high demand in the timber market.
The community has welcomed the police's swift action, hoping it will deter similar crimes targeting valuable natural resources and protected community lands in the future.
