Of the 17, the Forest Office has taken action itself to 14 and three have been sent for trial in District Court Morang, the office said.[break]
In the period, accused nine have been at large, and timber was smuggled in Tata van, five cycles, and one rickshaw van, said chief of Forest Office Arun Sharma.
During the period, Ko 1 Kha 4843 Tata van transporting newspapers was also found engaged in smuggling of timber while returning from Belbari and the driver and vehicle owner were arrested for trial.
Meanwhile, the District Forest Office Morang has taken back its weapons kept at the police office for security during the conflict period. The weapons- 12 guns from Salakpur, seven from Belbari and 12 guns and one pistol from Mangalbare police office have been returned said, Sharma.
The forest guards are ordered to shoot under knee if necessary.
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