Baramulla, June 6:

In a significant crackdown on illegal forest activities, a joint operation by the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Forest Department in the Boniyar Range of Baramulla district has resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of forest produce being transported unlawfully.

 

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a coordinated team from the J&K Police and the Forest Department set up a checkpoint near Boniyar Court on the Uri-Baramulla Highway late last night. During routine vehicle checks, a Mahindra Bolero Pickup (Registration No. JK05N 1121) coming from Uri Market was intercepted.

 

Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to be transporting 38 gunny bags filled with dry medicinal herbs, locally known as beriberi, without a valid Transit Permit from the Forest Department.

 

Arrest and Legal Action

The driver was immediately apprehended on the spot. A case is being registered under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act and other applicable laws at the concerned Police Station. The vehicle and the seized produce have been taken into custody. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network and identify other individuals involved.

 

Official Statement

Speaking on the development, Shri Irfan Ali Shah (IFS), Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir Circle, stated:

“This joint operation is a testament to the strong synergy between the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Forest Department. The seizure of this illicit forest produce sends a clear message that such illegal activities will not be tolerated.”

He further emphasized the long-term impact of such crimes:

“We are fully committed to curbing the menace of forest smuggling. These acts severely damage our biodiversity, deprive local communities of their livelihood, and result in revenue loss to the government. We will continue to intensify patrols, gather intelligence, and collaborate with law enforcement to dismantle these networks.”

 

Shah also extended his appreciation to the J&K Police for their continued cooperation in protecting the region’s forests and urged local communities to report any suspicious forest-related activities.