PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forest Department has foiled an attempt to smuggle illegally harvested pine timber during an operation conducted under the province-wide anti-smuggling campaign launched on the directives of the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Chief Secretary.
The operation was carried out by field staff under the supervision of Chief Conservator of Forests Hazara Region Asghar Khan, Conservator Lower Hazara Hayat Ali, and on the special instructions of Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Siran Division Amanullah Khan.
During the operation, forest officials intercepted several mules loaded with illegally cut chir pine timber. Preliminary investigations revealed that the timber had been harvested unlawfully and was being transported for smuggling before authorities successfully seized the consignment.
The confiscated timber and all pack animals used in the illegal transportation were taken into official custody. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the individuals involved under the relevant provisions of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forest Ordinance, 2002.
Forest officials said further investigations are underway to identify and prosecute all those involved in the illegal felling, transportation, and smuggling of forest resources.
The Forest Department reiterated its commitment to implementing a zero-tolerance policy against forest crimes, illegal logging, and timber smuggling. Officials said intelligence-based operations, night patrols, and strict enforcement of forest laws will continue to safeguard the province’s valuable forest resources and strengthen environmental conservation efforts.
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