Malaysian police raid illegal logging factory, seize timber and equipment worth RM1.69 million
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Malaysian authorities raided an illegal logging operation in Kampung Sungai Bayu, Gua Musang.
- The operation, believed to be running for a month without a license, was discovered through intelligence gathering.
- Authorities seized timber, equipment, and machinery valued at RM1.69 million, and detained five individuals, including the suspected owner.
Malaysian authorities have busted an illegal timber processing operation in Kampung Sungai Bayu, Gua Musang, which had reportedly been operating without a license for about a month. The raid, conducted by the General Operations Force (PGA) in collaboration with the Machang District Forestry Office, followed intelligence gathering. The operation targeted a site where timber was being processed and loaded onto a truck.
The inspection found that the factory owner failed to present an operating license from the Forestry Department, and the premises were believed to be operating illegally.
During the operation, PGA officers apprehended five individuals, including a 47-year-old woman who identified herself as the owner of the illegal factory. The team discovered various types of timber, believed to be untaxed, along with processing machinery and equipment. The total value of the seized items, including timber, equipment, and machinery, is estimated at RM1.69 million.
Further inspection also discovered a quantity of timber believed to be untaxed, as well as machinery and equipment used for processing timber.
Initial investigations suggest the factory obtained its supply of untaxed forest timber from local residents before processing it for sale. The case is being investigated under Section 3(2) of the National Forestry Act 1985. The raid highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal logging activities in the region.
Initial investigations found that the factory is believed to have obtained a supply of untaxed forest timber from local residents before processing it for sale.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.