SIBU: The General Operations Force (GOF) has dismantled an illegal logging operation with the seizure of 350 logs of various sizes worth over RM3 million last week.
Codenamed ‘Op Libas’, the raid was carried out by the GOF 10th Battalion at around 8.30am on June 24 at a location suspected to be a hub for illicit timber activities.
Sarawak GOF Brigade commander SAC Dr Che Ghazali Che Awang said three local men, aged between 39 and 57, were arrested in the operation.
“Further checks led to the seizures of 350 logs of various sizes and a wood-cutting machine.
“The estimated seizure value amounted to RM3,504,000, according to market price,” he said.
Che Ghazali added that the suspects and seizures were handed over to the Sarawak Forest Department’s Sibu Division for further action.
The case is being investigated under Section 96 of the Sarawak Forests Ordinance 2015 for unlawful possession of forest produce.
Upon conviction, the penalty is a fine up to RM150,000, imprisonment for a term of up to five years or both.
