Anantnag, September 5, 2026: Anantnag Police apprehended four persons allegedly involved in the illegal cutting and transportation of forest timber in the Matihindoo area during the intervening night of September 4 and 5.

According to police, a team from Police Station Larnoo intercepted the suspects while they were allegedly engaged in cutting forest timber and loading it onto a tractor bearing registration number JK03M-5421.

The apprehended individuals have been identified as Bashir Ahmad Khari, Irshad Ahmad Khari, Shabir Ahmad Pathan and Niyaz Ahmad Khari, all residents of Matihindoo.

Police said the tractor allegedly used in the commission of the offence has been seized in accordance with due procedure.

A case has been registered under the relevant provisions of law, and further investigation has been initiated to establish the full circumstances of the alleged forest-smuggling activity.

Anantnag Police reiterated its commitment to safeguarding forest resources and said strict action would be taken against those involved in illegal cutting, transportation and smuggling of forest timber.

The police action comes as authorities continue efforts to curb illegal exploitation of forest resources and protect the region’s forest wealth.