Chiang rai: Authorities inspected a timber warehouse in Huai Sak Subdistrict, Chiang Rai Province, to expedite the investigation into illegal logging and transnational timber trafficking. A large quantity of processed timber was found and seized for further investigation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and Mr. Angsuketi Wisutthiwattanasak, Director of the Justice Administration Division, Department of Special Investigation, along with administrative officials and related agencies, inspected a timber warehouse in Huai Sak Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province. The inspection aimed to verify the processing and sale of prohibited or illegal timber. This action stems from crucial evidence gathered from a previous arrest in an illegal logging case in Uttaradit Province, which led to a clear link to a hidden timber distribution and processing facility in the target area. Officials obtained a search warrant from the court to verify the facts and examine evidence at the site.
A search of the target area revealed a large quantity of teak, rosewood, and other processed timber, along with sawmills, wood processing equipment, and piles of sawdust scattered throughout the premises. This indicated that the site had been continuously used for timber processing, with the processed timber neatly arranged and ready for use or sale. The authorities seized the items and granted the business owner/operator the opportunity to present documents and evidence of procurement to prove the legality of the timber before proceeding with legal action. Initially, charges will be filed under the Forestry Act for the offense of "establishing a timber processing plant without a permit."