MANSEHRA: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forest Department has intensified its anti-smuggling campaign, conducting a successful intelligence-based raid against illegal timber in the Mansehra Sub-Division.
Acting on a confidential tip-off, the Mansehra Sub-Division forest staff raided a warehouse storing illegally cut pine timber at Bedra Madna, where trees had allegedly been felled from private land.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of Chief Conservator of Forests Hazara Region Asghar Khan and Conservator Lower Hazara Hayat Ali, following special directions from Divisional Forest Officer Siran Division Amanullah Khan and under the supervision of SDFO Mansehra Tahir Ayub.
During the raid, the forest team seized the illegally cut pine timber and took it into government custody.
Legal proceedings have been initiated against the individuals allegedly involved under the relevant provisions of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forest Ordinance, 2002. Further investigation is underway to identify and bring to justice all those involved in illegal tree cutting, transportation and timber smuggling.
The Forest Department reiterated its zero-tolerance policy against forest crimes, illegal logging and timber smuggling, emphasizing that intelligence-based operations, night patrols and effective legal action will continue to protect the province’s valuable forest resources.
The department said sustained enforcement and public cooperation are essential to curb illegal logging and safeguard forests for future generations.
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