SOME P401,000 worth of undocumented lumber were seized in a checkpoint in Allen, Northern Samar, following an intensive anti-criminality operation in the province.

“I urge the public to help the authorities in our efforts in preserving our environment and natural resources. Everyone’s cooperation is needed to stop the wanton destruction of our forest resources,” said Colonel Arnel Apud, director of Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO).

Authorities said a 10-wheeler reefer van was transporting illegally sawn lumber from Bobon town to Legazpi City, Albay, on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.

The van was intercepted by operatives from Allen Municipal Police Station led by Lieutenant Nimrod Holares, in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard-Northern Samar, Philippine National Police-Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force-Visayas, 1st Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Northern Samar Provincial Field Unit, and Northern Samar Provincial Special Operations Group.

The truck driver, Jan Richard Mandane Ballosa, failed to show the necessary documents to transport said forest products.

A case is now being prepared for filing in court for violation of the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines against the suspect. (SunStar Philippines)