In the intensified shares of Forest Police, conducted during October, against illegal logging, transportation and trade of illegal origin, 734 cubic metres of wood were seized and 147 cases were raised for counterinjury and criminalisation, the Agriculture Ministry reports.
Most of the secuested amount consists of oak and ahu, 288 cubic metres of oak and 274 cubic metres of ahu were seized, respectively. The rest of the secuested wood includes 51 cubic metres of mixed wood and 121 cubic metres of technical wood (strongs).
Under shares against wood thieves, Forest Police temporarily seized 11 freight vehicles and 15 passenger vehicles, eight tractors, 13 trailers and 18 electric saws. In addition, 122 cases of contempt in competent courts and 25 criminal charges at the Public Foundation Prosecution have been presented.
Indives earn money from wood theft, while all citizens suffer damage. Hence, we continue with intensified controls and will act decisively against any illegal activity that destroys forests. We will question both those who illegally cut and those who recut the wood. Forests are a common treasure and it is our obligation to protect them, Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy Minister Borce Serafimovski said. /Telegraphy/
