Tripura 9 Feb, 2025: In a significant crackdown on illegal timber smuggling, the Forest Department conducted a secret operation and seized a large quantity of teak timber. However, the timber smugglers managed to escape, leaving behind the contraband.
According to reports, on Sunday around 5 AM, acting on a tip-off, Kadamtala Beat Officer Abhijit Das and Dharmanagar Range Officer Supriya Debnath raided the Chollishdron area of Kadamtala, where illegal teak timber smuggling was reportedly taking place. Upon sensing the presence of forest officials, the smugglers attempted to flee in their vehicle at high speed. However, while taking a sharp turn, they lost control, and their vehicle veered into a paddy field. In a desperate attempt to escape, they abandoned the timber on the spot and fled with their vehicle.
Forest officials later arrived at the location and seized the smuggled teak timber. The confiscated logs were transported to the Dharmanagar Range Office. Officials confirmed that a total of 70 cubic feet of teak timber was recovered, estimated to be worth around one lakh rupees.
This recent crackdown is part of a series of operations led by the Forest Department, which has intensified its efforts against timber smuggling. The continuous success of such operations since the appointment of Kadamtala Beat Officer Abhijit Das has raised questions about how the timber mafia previously operated so freely. Allegations suggest that past illegal activities might have been conducted with the support of certain officials.
Forest authorities have assured that their drive against illegal timber trade will continue, sending a strong message to timber mafias that their unlawful activities will not go unchecked.
