Guj Forest dept seizes 16 tonnes of kher wood smuggled from Navsari forest, one nabbed

The Gujarat forest department arrested a man and seized around 16 tonnes of kher wood, which was being transported without the required permit in Godhtal village in Chikhli taluka from Navsari district. The operation was initiated after receiving a tip-off, as per reports.

The forest department reportedly busted a kher wood smuggling racket after setting up surveillance in the village, leading to the seizure of substantial amount of kher wood. 

During the investigation, officials also reportedly seized a truck loaded with kher wood, along with a Honda motorcycle without a number plate, which was allegedly being used to pilot the vehicle. In total, valuables worth ₹16.6 lakh, including wood and vehicles, were seized during the raid.

As per reports, the accused, Arjun Patel has been arrested during the raid. He reportedly has 24 cases of wood theft registered against him in the past. He was produced before a court, and remanded him to judicial custody at Navasri Sub Jail.

During the investigation, Patel allegedly revealed that the kher wood was supplied by a man named Shehzada, who resides in the Bhilad area and hails from Uttar Pradesh. 

Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.