Illegal timber smuggling foiled in Odisha; timber, vehicle worth over Rs 3L seized

The Forest Department on Sunday intercepted an illegal timber smuggling attempt near Gangapur village on Sunday under the Badagada forest range of the South Ghumusar forest division, Bhanjangar of Ganjam district and seized timber, vehicle worth over Rs 3 lakh.

Acting on a tip-off, forest officials seized a pickup van loaded with valuable timber, preventing its unlawful transport.According to officials, information was received that a pickup van was being used to smuggle high-value timber. Following this, the Badagada Range Forest Officer, along with a special enforcement team, launched an operation and began trailing the suspect vehicle.

Driver Flees, Vehicle Seized

On spotting the Forest Department vehicle, the driver abandoned the pickup van and fled the scene. The forest team successfully intercepted and seized the timber-laden vehicle near Gangapur village.

Valuable Timber Recovered

The seized consignment included teak and gambhari wood, both considered valuable forest produce. Officials confirmed that a total of 46 cft of timber was recovered during the operation.

“Based on the information we received, we had been tracking the suspects for the past four days. Last night, we successfully intercepted them, and with the assistance of the police, we were able to trace and seize the vehicle. The value of the seized timber is estimated to be over Rs 70,000, while the vehicle is worth more than Rs 2 lakh. Overall, the seized property is valued at over Rs 3 lakh,” said Anjan Kumar Nayak, Range Forest Officer, Badagada.

Estimated Value Around Rs 3 Lakh

The seized pickup van and timber are estimated to be worth approximately Rs 3 lakh. The Badagada Range Forest Officer stated that further investigation is underway to identify those involved in the smuggling network.

The successful operation highlights the Forest Department’s continued efforts to curb illegal timber trade and protect forest resources. Authorities have reiterated that strict action will be taken against those involved in forest-related offences, sending a clear warning to timber smugglers operating in the region.