In a joint operation, the Dewas forest department and local police intercepted a truck illegally transporting more than 10 tonnes of timber in the Pipalrawa area of Dewas district. The seized timber is estimated to be worth Rs 1 lakh.
The action was initiated after the police received a tip-off that a truck was smuggling timber from Bhuteshwar area towards Indore. Acting on the information, a Dial-112 police team, including constable Rajendra, intercepted the vehicle near Mundalwada intersection.
During inspection, the truck driver, Arvind Giri, a resident of Shujalpur, failed to produce any valid transit permits or documentation for the timber. Following his failure to provide legal paperwork, the police team alerted the forest department.
Deputy ranger Hemraj Gokhale said forest officials prepared a panchnama (spot memo) at the scene and registered a formal case under relevant forestry laws.
The enforcement team, led by Gokhale, seized the truck and timber. The vehicle was taken to Balgarh depot for secure storage. “The forest department has initiated a comprehensive investigation to trace the source of the illegal timber and uncover any broader network involved in its transit. Further legal proceedings against the accused are underway,” Gokhale said.
The seizure highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities to curb illegal logging and timber smuggling in the region. The forest department is now working to identify the origin of the timber and any individuals or groups involved in the illicit trade.
