Port Blair, Sept. 4: On 04/09/2023, credible information was received at PS Central Crime Station regarding illegal possession of Paduak and other hardwood timber at Garacharma area. It was reported that Mr. Prabhu was unlawfully stockpiling padauk wood and other wooden buttons in his permanent godown located in Jodakalan, Garacharma. Responding swiftly to this information, a dedicated raiding team was assembled to investigate the matter.

The team, composed of SI Parvash, HC/254 Sanjay Kujur, HC/733 Sanjit Madhu, PC/1143 K. Rajendran, and PC/1067 Thangaraj, meticulously searched Mr. B. Prabhu's godown. Their operation yielded seizure of 38 pieces of Paduak Timber (Volume: 0.579 Cbm) and 15 pieces of thumping Wood (Volume: 0.238 Cbm).

The seized padauk buttons and articles were confiscated in accordance with Section 52 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, following rigorous adherence to legal procedures. The seizure was documented on-site with a formal seizure memo and accused B. Prabhu was taken into custody under a detention memo.

Information was promptly conveyed to the Forest Department, Garacharma Range and the same was handed over under proper receipt. We urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving the environment or illegal possessions. Together, we can safeguard our precious resources for future generations, said the A&N Police in a release.

General Public is requested to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police immediately on the following telephone numbers- 112/100, 232586, 233307, and 9474290250, it added.