Authorities in Mae Hong Son province discovered a cache of illegally logged teak wood while responding to wildfires. Twenty-eight freshly sawn teak planks were found hidden in a bamboo thicket within the Pa Mae Yom Left Forest Reserve.
Illegal Logging Discovered During Fire Suppression Efforts
On April 9, 2569, Somjin Netpradit, Director of Forest Protection and Fire Control at the Regional Forest Office 1 (Mae Hong Son Branch), reported that the discovery occurred on April 8, 2569. The initial alert came from the Suomi NPP satellite’s VIIRS system, which detected 37 hotspots.
Personnel from Forest Protection Unit 5 (Mae Sariang) and Mae Sariang National Park were dispatched to investigate and suppress the fires near Ban Rai village, Moo 5, Tambon Mae Sariang, Mae Sariang District.
During fire suppression operations, officials uncovered evidence of illegal logging. The seized teak wood totaled 1.02 cubic meters. Freshly cut stumps were also found, showing no signs of fire damage. Authorities believe the wood was prepared to fulfill existing orders and was awaiting transport to buyers.
The recovered timber has been moved to Unit 5 (Mae Sariang) for safekeeping. Evidence has been documented and transferred to the Mae Sariang Police Station for legal proceedings and further investigation into those responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the hotspots initially detected?
The 37 hotspots were detected on April 8, 2569, by the Suomi NPP satellite’s VIIRS system.
How much teak wood was seized?
Authorities seized 28 planks of teak wood, totaling 1.02 cubic meters.
Where was the illegal teak wood discovered?
The wood was found hidden in a bamboo thicket within the Pa Mae Yom Left Forest Reserve, near Ban Rai village, Mae Sariang District.
What steps might be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?
