From Our Correspondent
WILLIAMNAGAR, Feb 17: A conglomerate of civil society organisations (CSOs) from the Nengkhra region in East Garo Hills has filed an FIR against a group of smugglers caught transporting illegal timber from the Darugre Reserve near Rongjeng.
The FIR was lodged at the Williamnagar Police Station by members of the GSU, FKJGP, APA, and GSMC.
On February 16, at approximately 10:40 PM, CSO members intercepted a Mahindra Bolero (AS16C1982) at Nengkra. The vehicle was found transporting a large consignment of timber without valid transit permits or legal documents. According to the CSOs, their inquiry established that the timber had been illegally felled and stolen from the Darugre Reserve Forest.
The smugglers apprehended by the CSOs are residents of Krishnai in the Goalpara district of Assam.
The FIR further noted that on the morning of February 17, two local residents attempted to assist the smugglers. One individual allegedly helped load the illegal timber but fled toward Williamnagar after failing to resolve the situation.
Additionally, the CSOs have sought action against two Nengkhra residents who allegedly extorted Rs 1.2 lakh from the smugglers by falsely claiming to represent the organisations.
While the vehicle and illegal timber have been seized and several individuals apprehended, the CSOs confirmed that a few other suspects remain at large.
