Over 2,000 logs seized, Chinese nationals involved
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Officials have already seized 2,660 logs, an indication that smuggling remains as vibrant as ever.
According to Kachin State Government committee, the logs were about to be smuggled to China by Chinese nationals.
An official from the committee said that many places in the state are not yet checked. He noted that smuggling may indeed increase.
Since January 19, the seized logs have been transported from Waimaw Township to Myitgyina Forest Department.
“Chinese nationals are found having been involved in the illegal logging. We witness this at at least two places in Waimaw Township,” said an official from Forest Department in Myitkyina Township.
According to the Myanmar Army, more than one hundred Chinese citizens were arrested in January with heavy machinery and motorbikes.
They could face charges under the Forest Law and Immigration Law.
The Kachin State can also charge them under the Prevention of Public Properties Act, which promises up to 10 years in jail term.
According to the Forest Department, Chinese nationals have involved in the smuggling of Myanmar’s natural resources since the beginning of 2012. Many were charged under the Forest Law and Immigration Act, but they paid fines and were deported.
In Myanmar, illegal logging is rampant. In 2014, nearly 40,000 tonnes of timbers including valued added logs were seized. Most of the culprits were Chinese citizens.
