On February 17, security forces intercepted a Tata truck carrying illegal timber concealed under iron scrap along National Highway-37 in Jiribam district. The operation was prompted by reliable information received on February 16 at approximately 11:30 pm, indicating that the truck was transporting timber from Imphal to Jiribam. A joint team, including personnel from the Special Mobile Patrol Unit and the Quick Reaction Team of the 156 CRPF Battalion, executed a frisking and checking operation at Leingangpokpi village under the supervision of the Additional SP/LO of Jiribam.
The Tata truck, registered as RJ14GN/3247 and driven by 53-year-old Prem Chand from Jaipur, Rajasthan, was halted for inspection. Narayan Lal Bajya, the truck owner, who was also present, provided documentation that incorrectly identified the cargo as iron scrap. However, upon thorough inspection, authorities discovered 120 beams of timber hidden within the iron scrap.
Following the discovery, the truck and its timber cargo were confiscated. Both the driver and owner were detained for their involvement in the illegal transportation of timber and subsequently handed over to the Forest Department for further legal action. Authorities have initiated legal proceedings under the appropriate forest and environmental protection laws, ensuring that necessary formalities were observed during the seizure process.