An attempt to illegally cut and smuggle teak timber was foiled by the Forest Department in the buffer zone of Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh on Monday. Three freshly cut teak logs, a motorcycle and a saw blade were recovered from the forest area, while the suspected smugglers managed to escape under the cover of darkness.

The action was carried out on August 24 in the Ajaygarh Beat under the Dhawari Forest Circle. According to forest officials, Beat Guard Pradeep Kumar Prabhakar and security workers were conducting a night patrol when they heard the sound of wood being cut inside the forest.

Suspects Fled After Patrol Team Arrived

The patrol team immediately moved towards the source of the sound and attempted to surround the suspected offenders. However, the suspects fled after noticing the presence of the forest personnel.

During a subsequent search of the area, officials found three freshly cut teak logs lying at the spot. A Hero Splendor motorcycle, bearing registration number MP35 ZF 2733, and a saw blade were also recovered.

Forest Department Seizes Vehicle

The Forest Department seized the timber, motorcycle and other material found at the site. Officials are now attempting to identify the suspects using the vehicle and other evidence recovered during the operation.

A case is being pursued under relevant provisions of the Forest Act, with further investigation underway to determine the identities of those involved and whether they are connected to a wider timber-smuggling network.

Night Patrolling Intensified

Forest officials in the Panna buffer area said night patrolling and surveillance have been strengthened to protect forest resources. Teams are keeping a closer watch on vulnerable areas, particularly during nighttime hours when illegal logging activities can be carried out more easily.

Officials said action against illegal tree felling and timber smuggling will continue, while additional monitoring will be undertaken in areas considered vulnerable to such activities.

The recovery of freshly cut teak logs and equipment indicates that the suspects had entered the forest with the intention of cutting and removing timber. The investigation will now focus on tracing the people involved and establishing how the seized motorcycle was being used in the suspected operation.