Pune: Over 200 Kg Sandalwood Seized, Accused Escapes During Dramatic Night Raid

The Forest Department has seized 201.057 kg of illegally transported sandalwood in a raid from the Jadhavwadi area in Junnar jurisdiction on Tuesday. The operation was carried out by the Otur Forest Range staff.

The suspect has been identified as Lahu Somnath Dhule, a resident of Jadhavwadi.

As per the information, the Forest Department received confidential information on May 3, 2025, regarding the planned illegal transport of sandalwood in Jadhavwadi.

Acting on the information, the department laid a trap on May 6 in the locality. Around 8 pm, accused Dhule was attempting to transport the sandalwood in his car (Hyundai Creta). When forest officials intercepted him near his residence, Dhule managed to escape under the cover of darkness after grabbing the car key, though his mobile phone was seized during the scuffle.

8 sacks of sandalwood seized

During the search of his vehicle, eight sacks filled with chopped sandalwood pieces weighing over 201 kg were found. Along with a digital weighing scale, a mobile phone (Apple), and the Creta car used for transportation, assets worth a total of ₹15 lakh were seized.

A case has been registered under various sections—41 (2B), 42, and 69 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927—and other relevant sections of the Maharashtra Forest Rules, 2014.

Assistant Conservator of Forests, Amrut Shinde, confirmed that four forest teams have been deployed to apprehend Dhule.

The illegal transport, trade, conversion, or storage of sandalwood is strictly prohibited. Violations can lead to imprisonment of up to two years and fines of up to ₹5,000 under the Indian Forest Act.

Amol Satpute, Deputy Conservator of Forests, speaking with FPJ, said, "Taking advantage of the night, Dhule escaped from the spot. However, a dedicated team has been deployed and he will be arrested soon. He could be a habitual offender, but that is part of the investigation. Accordingly, action will be taken."

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