Syed Adnan
PESGAWAR: In a decisive move against illegal timber activities, Secretary Forest of the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Nazar Hussain Shah, has initiated a comprehensive crackdown on the Timber Mafia. Emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach, Secretary Forest Nazar Shah has asserted that stringent actions will be taken against any individual involved in the smuggling of timber.
Underlining the commitment to safeguarding the province’s forests, Secretary Forest Nazar Hussain Shah personally orchestrated a covert operation based on credible information received. The operation successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle a significant quantity of illicit timber.
Eleven trucks, having departed from Malakand Forest Division and crossed the Dargai Forest Checkpost, were intercepted by the DFO Patrol Squad led by Sajid. Subsequently, 10 trucks were apprehended in the Marathi area, while one was intercepted on the Sardaryab road.
Upon the orders of Chief Minister KP Justice R Arshad Hussain, a province-wide crackdown against the Timber Mafia has been initiated. Chief Minister Arshad Hussain stressed the need to eradicate illegal timber trading and ensure strict adherence to legal protocols in the forestry sector.
Assessment of the illicit timber is currently underway, marking the preliminary stage of the investigation. Notably, it has been revealed that the apprehended trucks possessed permits; however, they were found to be transporting a much larger quantity than permitted by the issued documents.
This proactive stance by the Forest Department, spearheaded by Secretary Nazar Hussain Shah, exemplifies the dedication to preserving and protecting the vital natural assets entrusted to the government. As the assessment progresses, further details regarding the operation and the extent of the illicit timber trade will be disclosed.
