Timber Seizure by Balimela Forest Department in Malkangiri
by Addanki iswar R.
Malkangiri,16 August,2023:-Cut timber worth an estimated 2,50,000 rupees was recently seized by the Balimela Forest Department in the Malkangiri district. Acting on a tip-off, a joint operation was carried out by a 37-member team led by Balimela Forest Officer Jagannath Prasad Bisoi, along with Executive Magistrate Prashant Bhatra. The raid was authorized by a search warrant issued by forest officials and supervised by Malkangiri Divisional Forest Officer Pratap Kotapalli.
The operation focused on the residence of Mohiddin Sharif, situated in Balimela city’s central area. Approximately 45 pieces of teak and other woods were confiscated from Sharif’s residence. Despite the seizure, Sharif failed to provide valid documentation for the wood’s possession. The seized timber has been entrusted to Prashant Kumar Raut and stored within the Forest Officer’s office.
Mohiddin Sharif admitted to purchasing the wood for his daughter’s marriage, but the lack of proper documentation raised suspicions. The Forest Department has initiated legal proceedings, registering a forest case against Sharif. The investigation aims to uncover the origins and purpose of the illegally obtained timber.
Foresters, including Mohan Gudiya and Kumari Jyot Dungdung, alongside forest guards and protection officers, actively participated in the raid. The operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat illegal logging and preserve the region’s valuable forests. The authorities remain committed to preventing further environmental damage and holding individuals involved in illegal logging accountable for their actions.
