Handwara Police Foil Timber Smuggling Attempt, Recover Illicit Logs in Rajwar Handwara, Nov 23: In a major action against forest-related crimes, Handwara Police recovered a cache of illegally felled timber during a late-night inspection in Rajwar’s Baikihakhar village. The operation unfolded shortly after midnight when a patrol team spotted suspicious activity following a tip-off about smuggled timber hidden in the area. Sources said seven logs had been unlawfully stored in the courtyard of a local resident, allegedly transported from the thick evergreen belt of the Rajwar forests. Acting on the instructions of SSP Handwara, a team headed by the SHO quickly moved in and conducted a targeted raid. All seven timber logs were retrieved on the spot and subsequently seized as evidence. Police officials lauded the swift response of the team, noting that such timely measures are vital to preventing further depletion of forest resources. A formal case has been registered at Police Station Handwara under FIR No. 251/2025, invoking Section 303(2) of the BNS and Section 26 of the Forest Act. Investigators are now working to identify the individuals behind the illegal operation. Residents of the area welcomed the police action, stressing the need to protect the region’s green cover from unchecked logging and smuggling. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying efforts against those involved in forest offences, emphasizing that conservation of natural resources remains a key priority for the district.