Mumbai: Forest Department Busts Illegal Timber Smuggling Hidden Under Vegetable Cargo
Virar, 28th July 2026: In a major crackdown on illegal timber smuggling, the Forest Department intercepted a tempo transporting khair wood concealed beneath a load of vegetables in Virar East. The vehicle was seized after officials chased it for nearly 7–8 kilometres, while the driver managed to flee the spot under the cover of darkness.
According to forest officials, the operation was carried out after the department received specific intelligence about illegal transportation of khair wood through the Medhe area in Virar East. Acting on the tip-off, officials from the Bhatane Forest Range set up a special checkpoint in the early hours.
When a Tata Intra tempo matching the description arrived, officials signalled it to stop. However, the driver ignored the instructions and sped away. Forest personnel immediately pursued the vehicle and successfully intercepted it after a chase of around 7 to 8 kilometres.
During the inspection, officials found 77 khair wood logs hidden beneath crates of vegetables. The seized timber measured 1.284 cubic metres and is estimated to be worth ₹14,892. The tempo used for transporting the wood was also confiscated.
The Forest Department has initiated legal proceedings against those involved under the relevant provisions of the Forest Act. Efforts are currently underway to trace and apprehend the absconding driver.
Officials stated that the operation highlights the department’s continued efforts to curb illegal timber smuggling and protect forest resources in the region. Investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the smuggling network and determine the source and intended destination of the seized wood.
