ZAMBOANGA — Soldiers have seized 14 illegally cut Lawaan logs during a law-enforcement support operation in Sumisip, Basilan, as authorities intensify efforts to identify those behind illegal logging activities in the province.
The logs were confiscated around 4 p.m. on July 30 at the Sampinit Complex in Barangay Mahatalang, Sumisip, according to military authorities. The seized forest products were estimated at approximately 1,320 board feet.
The operation was conducted by troops from the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion. The Sampinit Complex sits near the boundaries of Lamitan City, Maluso and Sumisip and has historically been identified as an area used as a refuge by armed groups.
Following the seizure, the logs were brought to the battalion headquarters for documentation, safekeeping and proper disposition.
Military authorities coordinated with the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy office in Sumisip and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Maluso for the appropriate legal and administrative action.
Authorities are also looking beyond the individuals who may have physically cut the trees. Investigators said efforts will include identifying possible financiers, haulers, chainsaw operators and other people who may have participated in the illegal logging operation.
The seizure highlights continuing enforcement efforts against unauthorized cutting and transport of forest products in Basilan, where government agencies are working with security forces to protect remaining forest resources.
For now, the confiscated Lawaan logs remain under government custody while authorities determine the appropriate legal and administrative action and continue efforts to identify those responsible.
The next stage of the investigation could determine whether the seized timber is linked to a wider illegal logging operation—and whether additional individuals involved in the cutting, financing or transport of the forest products will face action.
