The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Ahmedabad has taken decisive action against a major inter-state Khair wood smuggling network, attaching 14 immovable properties valued at approximately Rs 11.3 crore. This significant move targets suspects allegedly involved in the illegal trade, marking the first instance where the ED has invoked the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, against individuals accused of Khair wood smuggling, including Arifali Amjadali Khan from Madhya Pradesh and others.
Surat Forest Department Intensifies Crackdown
In a parallel development, the Surat forest department has escalated its investigation by arresting Abbas Khan from Vapi in Valsad district. Khan, a native of Uttar Pradesh, is believed to be a key player in a smuggling syndicate operating across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. After evading authorities by fleeing to Uttar Pradesh, he returned to Vapi recently and was apprehended by forest officials.
Seizure of Transaction Records
Following Khan's arrest, forest department personnel conducted a raid at an Angadia firm in Vapi, seizing records of business transactions amounting to Rs 4.13 crore. These documents are alleged to be linked to Khan's activities, providing crucial evidence in the ongoing probe. Khan was subsequently presented before a Surat court and remanded to the custody of the Surat forest department for three days as investigations continue.
Background of the Smuggling Racket
The ED initiated its investigation based on a first offence report filed by the range forest officer of Mandvi South Range, Surat Forest Division. The case involves the illegal smuggling of Khair wood, which violates multiple provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Suspects such as Mustaq Alam Tasiya and Mohammed Tahir Ahmed Hussain, both from Godhra district in Gujarat, are accused of illegally felling Khair trees from wildlife sanctuaries in south Gujarat regions including Tapi, Surat, Valsad, Navsari, and Narmada districts.
Modus Operandi and Transport
These individuals allegedly operated without the necessary permissions from forest department authorities, using fake invoices to transport the illicit wood to destinations like Alirajpur in Madhya Pradesh and other locations. This sophisticated racket highlights the challenges in combating environmental crimes and the need for coordinated efforts between agencies.
Ongoing Investigations and Implications
Officials have stated that further investigation is underway to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network and identify all involved parties. The attachment of properties by the ED underscores the financial dimensions of the crime, aiming to disrupt the economic benefits derived from illegal activities. This case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats to India's forest resources and the importance of stringent enforcement measures to protect wildlife and natural habitats.
