In a major crackdown on illegal timber trade, a forest department team conducted a raid on a godown in Pilibhit district and seized 528 illegally stocked timber logs. The operation was carried out based on a tip-off regarding the illicit storage of forest produce.
Details of the Raid
The raid was led by Range Officer Rajesh Kumar along with a team of forest guards. They reached the godown located in the Barahi area and found a large quantity of timber logs stacked without any valid documents. The timber species were identified as sal and teak, which are protected under forest laws.
Arrest and Legal Action
During the raid, one person identified as Munna Lal was apprehended. He was found to be in possession of the timber and could not produce any permission or bills for the stock. A case has been registered under the Indian Forest Act, and further investigation is ongoing to trace the source of the timber and any other individuals involved in the illegal trade.
Forest Department's Stance
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Pilibhit, Dr. Anupam Kulshreshtha, stated that the department is committed to curbing illegal logging and timber smuggling. He warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating forest laws. The seized timber has been deposited at the forest department depot, and the accused has been sent to jail.
Public Appeal
The forest department has also appealed to the public to report any suspicious activities related to forest produce. A helpline number has been issued for citizens to share information anonymously. The department assured that informants' identities would be kept confidential.
This seizure is part of a series of operations by the Uttar Pradesh forest department to protect the region's rich biodiversity and prevent illegal exploitation of forest resources.
