Forestry Department Warns Against Illegal Logging After Court Forfeiture Ruling
The Forestry Department has issued a stern warning to all players in the forest sector, stressing that illegal logging and the unlawful transportation of timber will not be tolerated.
The caution follows a recent High Court ruling that resulted in the forfeiture of assets belonging to Sena Plus Investments Limited, a company found guilty of breaching forestry and financial regulations. Authorities say the judgment highlights the government’s growing resolve to curb illegal activities threatening Zambia’s natural resources.
Speaking in Lusaka, Chief Forestry Officer Dr Fredd Siangulube reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s forests and ensuring that all business operations comply with environmental and economic laws.
“Attention all stakeholders in the forest sector,” Dr Siangulube said. “Criminal activities such as illegal logging and the unlawful transportation of logs will not be tolerated. The law will catch up with those involved. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and avoid participating in these crimes. Some logs are being sold by unscrupulous individuals who put personal gain above the nation’s well-being.”
He further urged concessionaires and timber transporters to operate strictly within the law, warning that continued violations could result in the revocation of operating licences, confiscation of assets, and prosecution.
“We need everyone’s cooperation in protecting our resources,” Dr Siangulube added. “Concessionaires must abide by the law. Failure to do so will make it difficult to conduct business. We are taking robust measures to safeguard Zambia’s forestry wealth. Let’s work together to preserve our natural heritage.”
The Sena Plus case, which involved the forfeiture of over 2,000 logs and heavy machinery, has been hailed by government officials as a demonstration of effective inter-agency coordination between the National Prosecution Authority, Forestry Department, and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife.
Dr Siangulube’s statement reinforces the government’s position that forestry-related crimes will be met with decisive legal action, as Zambia intensifies its fight against environmental degradation and illegal resource exploitation.
