Timber smuggling from Bhaderwah
*2 Forest officials escape
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 22: In a significant crackdown on illegal timber smuggling, the Forest Protection Force (FPF) Doda seized a vehicle (JK06B-6463), loaded with green Deodar sleepers that were being illegally transported/ smuggled from the Jalga-Chinta area of Bhaderwah Forest Division towards Jammu.
Official sources said that the operation was carried out during late-night by a vigilant FPF team, which intercepted the suspicious vehicle on the Chinta-Bhaderwah route. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found heavily loaded with fresh fallen green Deodar sleepers, a protected forest produce whose felling and transportation is strictly prohibited under existing laws and directives of the Supreme Court.
The smugglers, however, managed to escape under the cover of darkness. Notably, the vehicle was reportedly being escorted by Beat Guard Mushtaq and a daily wager, Sunil, both of whom fled the scene upon noticing the approaching Forest Protection Force party. Their sudden escape has raised serious concerns regarding possible internal connivance, negligence and a nexus which is now a key focus of the ongoing investigation.
Officials said the operation was conducted under the supervision of Assistant Director, Forest Protection Force, Satish Singh Manhas, and Deputy Director Doda, Davender Kumar. The senior officers have taken a serious view of the incident.
A case has been formally registered under relevant sections of the Forest Act, and the seized vehicle along with the illicit timber has been taken into custody. The Assistant Director himself is leading a detailed investigation to unearth the complete modus operandi behind the smuggling racket. Efforts are underway to identify all individuals involved, including any possible network facilitating such illegal activities.
Preliminary findings suggest that the timber was illegally felled from forest compartments in the Jalga-Chinta belt, an ecologically sensitive zone known for its rich Deodar reserves. The smuggling attempt indicates a well-organized operation aimed at exploiting forest resources for commercial gain.
Pertinent to mention here that a few days ago the Doda Forest Protection Force also made a huge catch of illegally dumped sleepers in Tanta area of Bhaderwah Forest Division followed by another successful operation in Chiralla Range.
CCF Jammu, Dr V Senthil Kumar when contacted said that he has come to know about the matter. An inquiry has been initiated. The Forest Guard is being placed under suspension while the daily wager will be disengaged, he added.
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