The action was taken around 4 am after the department received specific information about the illegal transportation of wood from forest land. Acting on the tip-off, a forest patrol team rushed to the spot and found the carts parked with wood stacked on them.

As soon as the smugglers sensed the presence of forest personnel, they took advantage of the darkness and fled the scene, abandoning both the carts and the consignment. No arrests could be made at the time of the raid.

Forest officials have confiscated all three bullock carts along with the seized wood and registered a case against unknown persons under the relevant provisions of the Forest Act. Further investigation is underway to identify those involved in the smuggling racket.

The Lateri forest range is among the densest forested areas in Vidisha district and has remained vulnerable to illegal logging for years. Forest officials said the area has frequently been targeted by timber mafias, particularly for high-value species such as teak.

According to the department, smugglers earlier relied on motorcycles and four-wheelers to move illegally cut timber. However, increased vigilance and enforcement have forced them to adopt low-profile methods, including the use of bullock carts, to avoid detection.

Despite repeated operations, incidents of timber smuggling continue to be reported from the region. Forest authorities said surveillance and night patrolling in the Lateri range will be intensified to curb illegal felling and transportation of forest produce.