Belthangady – Forest department officials from the Belthangady Range carried out a raid in the reserve forest area of Melanthabettu village, uncovering a significant case of illegal tree felling and timber smuggling.
The operation led to the seizure of wooden logs, believed to have been felled using a Hitachi excavator by intruders who had unlawfully entered the protected forest area. Two individuals have been booked in connection with the offence.
Authorities confiscated timber worth ₹3 lakhs, along with machinery used in the act — a Hitachi machine valued at ₹30 lakhs, a tree-cutting machine worth ₹60,000, and an iron chain valued at ₹15,000. The total seizure is estimated at ₹33.75 lakhs.
The primary accused has been identified as Prakash Poojary from Naravi, while the Hitachi operator and owner was named as Karunaker Bhandari from Nooralbettu, Karkala.
Both individuals have been issued notices and summoned for further investigation, which is currently ongoing. Forest officials emphasized that strict action will be taken against those involved in harming protected natural resources.
This incident highlights the ongoing threat of deforestation and timber smuggling in the region and underscores the need for continued vigilance.
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