Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Myanmar authorities have seized over 88 tonnes of illegal timber and 200,000 stimulant tablets within a week. The operations, occurring in various regions, highlight heightened efforts against illegal logging and drug trafficking in the country.Key Takeaways
- 88 tonnes of illegal timber seized.
- 200,000 stimulant tablets confiscated.
- 17 offenders charged.
- Crackdown includes community monitoring.
- Authorities emphasize anti-drug operations.
Yangon, Feb 6 (NationPress) Authorities in Myanmar have uncovered more than 88 tonnes of illicit timber throughout the nation within a week, as reported by local media on Thursday.
From January 27 to February 2, they seized over 16.6 tonnes of teak, more than 9.41 tonnes of hardwood, and over 62.23 tonnes of various other timber types, according to Xinhua news agency, referencing the state-run daily The Mirror.
During this timeframe, 17 individuals faced charges related to these cases, in conjunction with the confiscation of three vehicles and machinery, the report added.
The Forest Department is intensifying its efforts against illegal logging and the trade of forest products through numerous initiatives, including a community monitoring and reporting system, the report mentioned.
In a separate incident, authorities also seized 200,000 stimulant tablets in southern Myanmar, local media noted on Thursday.
Following a tip-off, anti-narcotics police conducted a search of a motorcycle in Myeik town, located in the Tanintharyi region, on January 31, recovering 40,000 stimulant tablets along with a suspect.
Subsequent investigations led to the discovery of an additional 160,000 stimulant tablets at the suspect's residence in Myeik, the report stated.
Authorities also apprehended another suspect linked to drug trafficking in Kyunsu township of the Tanintharyi region on February 3, it further reported.
The confiscated narcotics are valued at around 600 million kyats (approximately 280,000 US dollars), as stated.
This seizure of stimulant tablets occurs amidst ongoing crackdowns by authorities on drug activities nationwide.
Earlier this month, more than 170,000 stimulant tablets were confiscated in the central Mandalay region, according to the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC).
Anti-narcotics police raided a guesthouse in Chanmyathazi township, seizing 2,000 stimulant tablets and arresting a suspect.
Further investigations resulted in the recovery of an additional 171,000 tablets at the suspect's home in Patheingyi township.
The seized drugs were valued at over 346 million kyats (around 0.164 million US dollars).
