Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug. 29: Illegal hand-sawn Padauk timber measuring approximately 2.248 cubic metres was seized from Aam Dera in Rutland by a Mobile Squad of the South Andaman Forest Division, following a three-day search operation in the area. The operation resulted in the seizure of 82 pieces of timber of different sizes along with a powerchain saw, two jericans and aluminium and steel utensils.
The action followed credible information received by the Mobile Squad from informers on August 23, prompting the team to move towards Rutland under the Manglutan Range to conduct a search. The squad remained in the area for three days and carried out an intensive search operation.
During the operation on August 25, the team detected the illegal timber and other items at Aam Dera, Rutland. The seized Padauk timber comprised 82 hand-sawn pieces of varying sizes, with the total volume estimated at approximately 2.248 cubic metres. The team also recovered one powerchain saw, two jericans and aluminium and steel utensils from the site.
Forest officials seized the timber and associated items on the spot in accordance with the prescribed procedure. The action brought the suspected illegal forest produce into official custody for further proceedings.
After completing the operation, the Mobile Squad returned to the station on August 26. The seized Padauk timber and other recovered articles were subsequently handed over to the Beat Officer, Anarkali Beat, Rutland, through the Range Officer, Manglutan Range, for safe custody and further course of action.
The South Andaman Forest Division has appealed to the public to cooperate in protecting the forests and wildlife of the Islands. It has also urged people to report information concerning illegal hunting, possession, transportation, storage or trade of forest and wildlife produce.
Information can be provided through the Forest Division helpline at 03192-255228. The division said the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.
