Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail. -filepic
KUANTAN: The enforcement operation against illegal plantations in Raub was carried out after obtaining the legal opinion from the office of the state legal adviser, says Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
He said the joint action involving the state Forestry Department and the Pahang State Enforcement Unit, with the cooperation of the police.
"The enforcement action began on Saturday (July 3) and is expected to continue until Aug 2.
"The enforcement operation involves illegal orchards including those where Musang King durian trees have been planted in the Batu Talam permanent forest reserve, covering an area of about 101.17ha," he said on Monday (July 5).
Wan Rosdy said it was a normal operation but it was met with resistance.
He added that four people were detained on July 3 and another 18 on July 4.
"On allegations that the enforcement operation violated the Court of Appeal order, it is actually not because the enforcement work is carried out outside the durian orchards owned by Royal Pahang Durian Resources PKPP Sdn Bhd," claimed Wan Rosdy.
He said the state legal adviser's office had previously referred the matter back to the Court of Appeal.
"I hope this does not become a racial issue," said Wan Rosdy, adding that enforcement work had previously been carried out in Sungai Ichat, Bertam Valley in Cameron Highlands and Kechau, Lipis, involving different ethnicities.
