In a major crackdown on illegal forest activities, the Range Forest Officer (RFO) of Collem has busted a khair wood smuggling operation and detained three individuals involved in the crime.
The accused have been identified as Hasan Shaikh (35), Suraj Bhosle (33), and Biru Babu Patkare (24). Forest officials seized khair wood worth approximately ₹30,000 along with a rickshaw used for transportation.
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Acting on a tip-off, the forest team intercepted the suspects while they were attempting to smuggle the timber out of forest limits. The swift action by the RFO prevented further damage to forest resources.
The accused are currently being questioned, and further legal action is underway. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting forest reserves and taking strict action against those involved in illegal logging and timber smuggling.
