Major Red Sanders Smuggling Bust in Andhra Pradesh: Rs 1.65 Crore Worth of Logs Seized
In a significant crackdown on the illicit red sanders trade, the Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force (RSASTF) based in Tirupati has executed a successful operation resulting in the seizure of 72 red sandalwood logs valued at approximately Rs 1.65 crore. The operation took place near the Pincha Project in T. Sundupalli mandal, Annamayya district, early on Wednesday, leading to the arrest of four individuals, including two interstate smugglers.
Swift Action Based on Credible Intelligence
Acting on reliable intelligence inputs, the RSASTF personnel, under the strategic direction of Task Force head L Subbarayudu and the supervision of SP P Srinivas, IPS, along with ASP J Kulasekar, launched a surprise raid at dawn. The coordinated effort involved forest officials who joined the team as they approached the vicinity of the Pincha Project.
Upon arrival, the authorities observed a tractor parked under suspicious circumstances while a group of men was actively loading red sanders logs into an attached tanker. This sighting prompted immediate action from the Task Force.
Chase and Apprehension of Suspects
As the police moved in, some of the smugglers attempted to flee the scene in a bid to evade capture. However, the Task Force personnel demonstrated exceptional agility and determination, chasing down and apprehending four individuals. Despite their efforts, a few others managed to escape into the surrounding area.
A comprehensive inspection of the location followed, leading to the confiscation of all 72 red sanders logs and the tractor-tanker combination used for transporting the contraband. The seized items are now under official custody as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Interstate Smuggling Network Uncovered
During subsequent interrogation, the identities of the arrested accused were revealed, shedding light on the interstate nature of the smuggling operation. Two of the individuals are residents of Vellore district in Tamil Nadu, while the other two hail from Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh. This geographical spread has led police to believe that the bust is part of a larger, well-organized interstate smuggling network.
Investigators are now intensifying their efforts to trace and apprehend the key masterminds behind this racket, aiming to dismantle the entire operation from its roots.
Recognition and Rewards for Task Force
Task Force head L Subbarayudu publicly commended the Tirupati Task Force team for their swift and coordinated action, which played a pivotal role in the success of this operation. In recognition of their crucial contributions, rewards have been announced for the officers and personnel involved, highlighting the importance of such diligent efforts in combating wildlife crime.
This operation underscores the ongoing commitment of authorities to protect endangered red sanders trees and curb illegal trafficking, which poses a significant threat to biodiversity and economic stability in the region.
