The Tengnoupal Forest Division, in coordination with the Central Forest Division and Thoubal District Police, conducted a joint operation at illegal stone quarrying sites in the Wabachong and Tolen hill ranges on Saturday.
During the operation, one Tata vehicle involved in illegal quarrying activities was apprehended and seized. Officials said that a Preliminary Offence Report will be filed in connection with the case. Illegal stone quarrying is strictly prohibited under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
Deputy Conservator of Forests of the Tengnoupal Forest Division, Mahamuda Begum, stated that forests continue to face serious threats from organised mineral theft. She said the joint operation demonstrated the collective resolve of the state machinery to protect the natural heritage of the region.
The Deputy Conservator of Forests also acknowledged the crucial support and cooperation extended by the Thoubal District Police under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Manoj Prabhakar M, IPS, and the Central Forest Division, Mantripukhri, in carrying out the operation.