Tripura, April 4, 2025: In a major crackdown on illegal timber smuggling, the Churaibari Forest Beat successfully seized approximately 400 cubic feet of illegally processed teak wood in two separate operations. Acting on confidential information, Beat Officer Ashutosh Malakar led the raids on Friday at two different locations. The first operation was conducted near the house of Debu Deb in Kalachandpara, Churaibari, where around 150 cubic feet of illegally stored teak wood was recovered.
While the owner of the seized timber could not be identified, the Beat Officer stated that Debu Deb is allegedly involved in the illegal timber trade and is suspected to be the owner of the seized wood. The second operation took place at the residence of Hannan Mia in Khadimpara, East Fulbari.
Approximately 250 cubic feet of teak wood was recovered from the premises. Although no arrests were made, authorities suspect that the timber belongs to Hannan Mia, who is known to be engaged in the illegal timber trade. According to Beat Officer Malakar, the estimated market value of the seized timber is over ₹4 lakh. Preliminary investigations suggest that the timber was transported from Kanchanpur or Damchhara and was intended for smuggling into Assam.
Legal proceedings under forest laws will be initiated against those involved. Additionally, another consignment of illegal teak wood was seized while being transported in a vehicle. The Churaibari Forest Beat has assured that their crackdown on illegal timber smuggling will continue.
