Sources in the Forest department told that about 30 to 35 timber lifters came to Lawachhera reserve forest under Kamalganj upazila last week and started cutting down Segun timbers. Observing this a patrol team of the department asked them to refrain from destroying the forest resources, but in vain. Then the patrol team opened blank fire and captured two criminals while fleeing. About 75 cubic feet of Segun timber was also recovered from the culprits.

The arrested are: Joney, 36, and Sumon Hasan, 32, of Kumrakapon village in Kamalgonj upazila.

In separate drives, the Forest officials seized two inter-district trucks and a three wheeler tempo-loaded with timber and fuel wood from the Chaittachera bridge area on Srimangal-Bhanugachha road. About 250 cubic feet of Segun timber and 350 cubic feet of fuel wood were recovered from the seized vehicles.

Sources in the Forest department told this correspondent that timber lifting is on rise in the area due to patronage of corrupt politicians.