JAMMU, DECEMBER 28: In a major blow to the illegal timber trade, the Jammu Rural Police successfully intercepted and seized two vehicles heavily laden with illicit Khair wood in the Jourian area. The operation took place during the early hours of Sunday at a specialized checkpoint (naka) established at Rakh Muthi by a team from the Jourian Police Post.
At approximately 03:30 AM, officers signaled a Scorpio (PB09G-4072) and a Mahindra Load Carrier (JK02BM-7125) to stop for inspection. However, capitalizing on the cover of darkness, the drivers of both vehicles abandoned their loads and managed to flee the scene as police approached.
A thorough search of the abandoned vehicles led to the discovery of approximately 50 to 60 quintals of Khair wood logs. Preliminary investigations suggest the timber was being smuggled for commercial sale in violation of environmental protection laws. Both the vehicles and the high-value forest produce have been taken into departmental custody.
Following the seizure, a formal report was lodged at the Jourian Police Post, and the Forest Department has been officially notified to initiate further legal proceedings under the relevant provisions of the Forest Act.The Jammu Rural Police have reaffirmed their zero-tolerance policy regarding the smuggling of forest produce.
Authorities stated that intensified patrolling and intelligence-led operations will continue across the district to safeguard natural resources and dismantle the networks involved in the illegal timber trade. Efforts are currently underway to trace the owners of the seized vehicles and apprehend the absconding drivers.
