The state forest department officials have conducted a coordinated raid-cum-patrolling operation against illegal mining and timber smuggling in the West Garo Hills district and seized timber, trucks, and tools.Acting on specific intelligence inputs, officials on Saturday moved into the Gumaijhora and Chibinang Chanupara (Gopgopara) areas of the district, where they intercepted activities linked to unauthorised extraction.According to an official statement, the operation was a joint effort involving the forest department led by the assistant conservator of forests, the district administration under the magistrate, and the police.
The collaboration underscored the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward illegal exploitation of natural resources.At Gumaijhora, forest officials inspected a site suspected of illegal earth mining. Evidence including written statements and photographs was collected for further inquiry. Illegal sand mining was also detected at a nearby stream, though offenders fled upon the arrival of authorities. Extraction tools were seized, and a JCB machine allegedly involved in the activity was traced to its owner, with a summon letter issued for verification.Meanwhile, in Chanupara (Gopgopara), officials seized heavy machinery used in timber smuggling. An animal cart transporting timber logs without valid permits was intercepted, and both the cart and timber were confiscated. Authorities also disrupted illegal earth mining operations, detaining one JCB, a dumper truck loaded with earth, and a tractor. All vehicles were taken to the Hollaidonga range office., while landholders and vehicle owners have been summoned for inquiry.The forest department confirmed that investigations are underway to establish the ownership of the seized equipment and trace the origin of the timber.
