Forest mafia activity suspected as vehicles carrying illegal timber set ablaze in Dima Hasao

The continued presence of forest mafia in Dima Hasao district has once again come under the spotlight following a serious incident at Chesko village, around 16 km from Umrangso, raising concerns over the safety of the region’s fragile ecology.

According to officials, a Gypsy vehicle and a truck were set on fire by unidentified miscreants in the area. The incident took place day before yesterday, though the Forest Department and police received information only after it had occurred. The truck was reportedly carrying suspicious timber believed to have been illegally sourced from nearby forest areas. Both vehicles were completely destroyed in the blaze.

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The Forest Department has registered an FIR at Umrangso Police Station in connection with the incident. Officials said that neither of the vehicles bore registration number plates, and no individual has so far come forward to claim ownership. Significantly, the incident occurred within a reserved forest area, pointing towards organised illegal activities.

Forest officials said the episode strongly suggests that forest mafia operations remain active in Dima Hasao despite enforcement efforts. However, the identities of those who set the vehicles on fire and the ownership of the vehicles involved are yet to be ascertained.

An investigation is currently underway to identify those responsible and to determine the source of the timber, as authorities seek to curb illegal logging and protect the district’s forest resources.