Tengnoupal Forest Division, in collaboration with the Central Forest Division and Thoubal District Police, conducted a significant operation on Saturday targeting illegal stone quarrying activities in the Wabachong and Tolen hill ranges. This operation resulted in the apprehension and seizure of a Tata vehicle, with intentions to file a Preliminary Offence Report (POR) regarding the illegal activities. Illegal stone quarrying is notably restricted under the Indian Forest Act (IFA) of 1927 and the Forest Conservation Act of 1980, highlighting the legal framework protecting forest resources. Deputy Conservator of Forests for the Tengnoupal Forest Division, Mahamuda Begum, emphasized that forests are perpetually endangered by organized mineral theft. The operation underscored the unification of state efforts to safeguard natural heritage. The DCF also expressed gratitude for the essential support from Thoubal District Police, led by Manoj Prabhakar M, IPS – Superintendent of Police, Thoubal District, as well as the Central Forest Division in Mantripukhri, which aided in the operation’s execution.
