Foresters put illegal loggers on the run

Cedar trees valued at thousands of dollars were found cut up into logs yesterday deep into the forest.

Police reported that a group of forest officers led by Karl Ramlochan, and including David Singh, Vijay Singh, Bertrand Bedaisee, Jargit Balroop and Dhandass Ramsawak, journeyed several miles into the Tamana Forest with information that illegal logging was taking place.

At about 8 am, the foresters spotted four armed men whom they recognised. The men evaded the foresters by hiding in the forest.

On investigation, a camp with a bandmill machine, used for cutting logs into planks, was discovered. Logs were also found. The seized items were lodged at El Roposo Agricultural Station, Fishing Pond, Sangre Grande.

Foresters told Newsday that these types of crimes are destroying the green forest and the environment, and they are making all moves to stop it.

The maximum fine for such an offence is $200,000.

Acting Cpl Ken Rampersad and Ken Lutchman are investigating.