GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan Forest Department has intensified its crackdown on illegal logging and timber smuggling under its zero-tolerance policy, with the Red Squad seizing a consignment of suspected illegally obtained Kail timber during a late-night operation in Haramosh.
According to the department, the Red Squad Gilgit acted on a tip-off at around 2:30am on August 23, 2026, regarding Kail timber sleepers allegedly dumped near Baroon Nallah in Shotot, Haramosh, reportedly for onward transportation.
Acting promptly on the information, a team led by RFO Red Squad Muhammad Tayyab, along with Forester Shoaib Ahmed and FC personnel, reached the location and took the dumped timber sleepers into official custody.
The seized timber was subsequently shifted to the Gilgit Forest Post, Jatial, for safe custody and further legal proceedings.
Officials said the operation was conducted under the directions of Forest Secretary Sabtain Ahmed and Chief Conservator of Forests Mahmood Ghaznavi as part of the department’s zero-tolerance approach towards illegal cutting, transportation and smuggling of forest resources.
The Forest Department reiterated that illegal exploitation and trafficking of forest resources would not be tolerated and that enforcement teams had been directed to take prompt and indiscriminate action against those involved.
The late-night operation reflects the department’s continued efforts to strengthen forest protection, prevent illegal timber trafficking and safeguard Gilgit-Baltistan’s valuable forest resources.
Also Read: Illegal Kail Timber Seized During Late-Night Forest Department Operation in Chakdara
