KUANTAN: A total of 129 individuals have been arrested for various offences under Ops Sekat, the ongoing crackdown on illegal durian plantations in Raub that began in April, says Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
The Pahang Mentri Besar warned that any attempt to encroach, cultivate or profit illegally from state land or permanent forest reserves constitutes a criminal offence and will be met with strict enforcement.
"The Pahang government will not tolerate illegal land encroachment or durian plantations in Raub. No one is above the law and firm action will continue until these activities are completely eradicated," he said in a statement Wednesday (Aug 27).
Now in its fourth phase since July 21, Ops Sekat has sealed off more than 10,000ha of illegal plantations and felled 104ha of durian trees within the Gunung Benom Forest Reserve.
The operation involves the Raub District and Land Office, State Forestry Department, People's Volunteer Corps (RELA), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and is led by the Pahang State Enforcement Unit (UPNP).
Wan Rosdy said the coordinated effort has strengthened enforcement to ensure the law is applied firmly and effectively. - Bernama
