Police investigating theft of lumber from Cockpit Country Protected Area
Published:Sunday | July 28, 2024 | 4:41 PM
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says it is investigating the recent theft of lumber, estimated to be of significant value, from the Forestry Reserves near Accompong, in St Elizabeth.
It notes that the illegal activity has resulted in substantial environmental and economic loss and endangered the lives and safety of state agents and members of the wider community.
On Friday,agents from the Forestry Department discovered and seized piles of illegally harvested mahogany lumber approximately eight miles from Quick Step.
"Unfortunately, their efforts were obstructed by roadblocks and aggressive actions from unidentified individuals, culminating in the abduction and obstruction of these state agents. This blatant disregard for the law and the safety of public servants is intolerable. It is imperative to understand that these actions are criminal offences against the State," the JCF Corporate Communications Unit said in a media release.
READ: Forestry Department says lumber seized in Trelawny was being harvested illegally
It said the individuals responsible for these "heinous acts" will be identified and brought to justice.
It is appealing to law-abiding citizens in the area to support the JCF in these efforts by providing any information they may have regarding the crimes.
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