MANSEHRA: The Forest Department has arrested a suspect for allegedly cutting a Chir tree and preparing the timber for use as firewood at Dehriyal in Lower Siren Division.
The action was carried out by the field staff of the Lower Siren Forest Division under the supervision of the Chief Conservator of Forests, Hazara Region, and Conservator Lower Hazara, on the special directions of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Siren Division.
According to the Forest Department, the operation followed information circulating on social media about illegal forest activity in the area. Field staff reached the location and arrested a suspect who was allegedly involved in cutting a Chir tree and preparing the wood.
Officials said the suspect had previously been warned and subjected to action in connection with a similar timber-related offence. Following the latest incident, the field staff took him into custody and seized the recovered Chir timber.
The seized timber has been taken into government custody, while further legal proceedings have been initiated under the relevant forest laws and regulations, including applicable provisions of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forest Ordinance, 2002.
Further investigation is underway to determine whether other individuals were involved in illegal cutting, transportation or smuggling of timber in the area.
The Forest Department said it would continue action against forest crimes and illegal timber activities through intelligence-based operations, night patrols and enforcement measures.
The department stressed that protecting forests is essential for biodiversity, soil conservation, water resources and the long-term environmental security of local communities.
