The forest wing of Odisha Vigilance seized illegal sawmill accessories along with valuable teak timber worth over Rs 13 lakh during a joint raid in Athanga village under Niali police station limits.
Officials reported that the raid targeted an illegal sawmill operating without a valid license. During the operation, they detected and seized sawmill equipment along with 8.51 cubic feet of timber. Additionally, near Athanga Primary School, authorities discovered and confiscated illegally stacked round teak timber measuring 50.64 cubic feet.
The combined seizure of sawmill accessories and 59.15 cubic feet of teak timber has been valued at ₹13,07,866. Vigilance officials stated that the crackdown forms part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal timber trade and protect forest resources in Odisha.
The operation highlights the vigilance wing’s proactive measures against unauthorised sawmills and illegal timber storage. Officials emphasised that such activities not only cause financial loss to the state but also threaten ecological balance.
Further investigation is underway to identify individuals involved in running the illegal sawmill and stacking timber. Authorities confirmed that strict legal action will follow against those responsible.
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