Anantnag Timber Smuggling Racket Busted: Two Arrested with Illicit Kail Wood

ANANTNAG, December 30: In a major success against forest-related crimes, the Anantnag Police have apprehended two timber smugglers involved in the illegal felling of trees within the Kherpeth forest range.

The operation, executed by the Larnoo Police Station, marks a significant step in the district’s ongoing efforts to curb the environmental destruction caused by the illicit timber trade.The crackdown was initiated following credible intelligence received by the police regarding illegal activities in the forest area.

Acting swiftly, a police team conducted a targeted raid at the identified location. During the operation, officials recovered five logs of illicit Kail timber and seized a hand saw used for the illegal cutting of trees.

The two accused, identified as Adil Ahmad Padder, son of Gh Mohi din Padder of Larnoo, and Rayees Ahmad Sheikh, son of Ab Salaam Sheikh of Kherpeth, were arrested on the spot and are currently in police custody.

A formal case, FIR No. 42/2025, has been registered at Police Station Larnoo under the relevant sections of the law. As investigations continue to determine if there is a wider network involved, the Jammu & Kashmir Police have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the region’s green gold.

Authorities warned that strict legal action will persist against anyone attempting to exploit forest resources, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy toward environmental crimes to ensure a sustainable and law-abiding society.