Authorities Make Major Seizure of Illegally Procured Forest Produce in Baramulla

Jahangir Lolabi

Baramulla: In a major action against illicit forest activities, authorities have made a major seizure of illegally procured forest produce in Boniyar range of Baramulla.

An official said that in a joint operation conducted by the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Forest Department in the Boniyar Range of Baramulla district led to the seizure of a vehicle carrying a substantial quantity of illegally procured forest produce. The operation, the official said, was executed with coordination and intelligence sharing, underscores the unwavering commitment of both departments to combat forest crimes and protect the region’s valuable forests.

“Acting on specific intelligence, a joint team comprising personnel from the J&K Police and the Forest Department established a discreet checkpoint near Boniyar Court on Uri Baramulla Highway in the Boniyar Forest Range late last night,” said the official, adding, “During routine checks, a suspicious vehicle, a Mahindra Bolero Pickup bearing registration number JK05N 1121 coming from Uri market was intercepted. Upon thorough inspection, it was discovered to be loaded with illegally extracted medicinal herbs in dry form locally called as BeriBeri, which was concealed in 38 Gunny bags, being transported without the necessary Transit permit from Forest Department.”

“The driver of the vehicle, was immediately apprehended, and a case is being registered under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act and other applicable laws in concerned Police Station. Further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in this smuggling network,” said the official as per Alfaaz – The Words.

“The seized vehicle and illicit produce have been taken into custody.”

Commenting on the successful operation, Irfan Ali Shah (IFS), Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir Circle], stated, “This joint operation is a testament to the strong synergy and collaborative efforts between the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Forest Department. The seizure of this illicit forest produce sends a clear message to those engaged in illicit trade of medicinal plants that such illegal activities will not be tolerated”.

Mr Shah further affirmed, “We are fully committed to curbing the menace of illicit smuggling of forest produce. Such acts not only cause irreparable damage to our biodiversity but also deprive the people of their livelihoods and the Government of legitimate revenue. We will continue to conduct intensified patrols, gather intelligence, and launch joint operations with law enforcement agencies to dismantle these smuggling networks.”

“We urge the local communities to come forward and report any suspicious activities related to forest crimes, as their cooperation is crucial in our fight to safeguard our green wealth for future generations.He also thanked the J&K Police Department for their continued support in curbing the forest offences,” Shah added.