Assam: Illegal Timber Transport Intercepted at Indo-Bhutan Border; Bhutanese Nationals Detained
GUWAHATI: In a significant operation conducted by the forest department in Assam's Chirang district, a substantial consignment of illegally transported timber was intercepted, leading to the apprehension of two Bhutanese nationals. Emerging reports highlight the successful operation, which unfolded along the Indo-Bhutan international borders in the Chirang district.
On Thursday evening, the forest department executed a meticulously planned operation at Dadgiri, situated along the border. The mission, triggered by actionable intelligence from informants, proved fruitful as officials managed to seize a pick-up van conspicuously adorned with a Bhutanese number plate. The vehicle was found to be transporting a sizeable quantity of smuggled timber.
The forest department's intervention was orchestrated by officials from the Runikhata range in Chirang, who swiftly responded to the provided inputs. Their on-site investigation uncovered a Bolero pick-up vehicle, bearing the registration number BP 1D 1618, loaded with illicit timber cargo.
Simultaneously, the operation led to the detention of two Bhutanese nationals, identified as 30-year-old Bheem Bahadur Rai and 28-year-old Rajen Rai. The detained individuals were found in close proximity to the smuggled timber-laden vehicle. Subsequently, the seized Bolero pick-up, along with the confiscated timber and the apprehended Bhutanese nationals, was transported to the Kajalgaon Forest Division for further processing.
The confiscated timber haul, estimated to possess significant monetary value amounting to several lakhs, underscored the extent of the illegal smuggling operation. The forest department's prompt action was instrumental in halting this ecological violation and curbing the rampant black market trade in timber.
Legal proceedings have been promptly initiated in response to this incident. The forest department's dedication to enforcing environmental regulations and combating unlawful activities remains evident in its immediate response and stringent follow-up measures.
In the course of their interrogation, the detained Bhutanese nationals, Bheem Bahadur Rai and Rajen Rai, made revealing statements. They confessed to having engaged in illicit timber transportation on behalf of a third party. Notably, they disclosed receiving remuneration of Rs 10,000 for their involvement in transporting the prohibited timber consignment to the Chirang district in Assam.
This operation stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the region's natural resources and biodiversity. The interception of this illegal timber transport underscores the significance of cross-border cooperation in preserving the environment and upholding ecological integrity.
In conclusion, the forest department's proactive operation along the Assam-Bhutan border successfully thwarted an attempt at illegal timber trafficking. The apprehension of two Bhutanese nationals, coupled with the confiscation of the timber-laden vehicle, serves as a stern warning to those engaging in illicit activities detrimental to the environment. The diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies continue to play a pivotal role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
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