TIRUPATI: Red sanders smugglers have begun altering their methods by converting raw logs into thin planks and wooden strips to escape detection during transportation. This latest tactic was uncovered during an operation by the Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force (RSASTF), which resulted in the seizure of 192 red sanders pieces valued at approximately ₹50 lakh near the forest region of Chejerla in Nellore district.
The operation was initiated under the direction of RSASTF head L. Subba Rayudu and Task Force SP P. Srinivas. Based on specific intelligence, DSP G. Balireddy, along with RI Sai Giridhar, RSI Lingadhar, and the local forest beat officer Janardhan, launched a combing operation on Monday night across forested areas in Chejerla.
At dawn on Tuesday, the task force reached the Kaluvayi forest beat, where they identified suspicious activity involving a car and a motorcycle. As the team approached, the suspects attempted to flee. Four individuals were apprehended, two residents of Tamil Nadu and two from Nellore district.
Further inspection led to the recovery of 192 red sanders pieces, many of which had been processed into planks and strips for easy concealment. A car and a motorcycle used in the transport were also seized. The accused were taken to the RSASTF police station in Tirupati for interrogation, and a case was registered.
Officials observed that smugglers are increasingly resorting to processing red sanders logs into smaller, sawn pieces such as planks and strips to avoid detection during transit. “We have intensified surveillance in vulnerable forest corridors, as smugglers are constantly adapting their methods to bypass enforcement”, a Task Force official said.
