At least six forest guards, including a range officer, sustained injuries when timber smugglers attacked them in a remote area of Kanchanpur in North Tripura on Tuesday. The assailants also caused significant damage to two departmental vehicles. However, no arrests have been made so far in connection with the incident.
Ambush and Chase
According to police, acting on a tip-off regarding timber smuggling, a forest protection team set up an ambush near Chandipur on Monday night. Early Tuesday morning, the team attempted to stop a vehicle loaded with timber near Chandipur, but the driver ignored their signals and sped away. The forest guards chased the vehicle in a departmental vehicle.
Attack on Forest Personnel
The driver later abandoned the timber-laden vehicle and fled on foot. Shortly afterward, a group of approximately 50 individuals returned and launched a violent attack on the forest guards. At least six personnel, including a range officer, sustained injuries in the assault, police officials confirmed.
The injured forest guards were immediately provided medical attention. Authorities have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the attackers. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by forest officials in curbing illegal timber smuggling in the region.
