Forest activists decry illegal logging

PREY Lang forest activists in Kampong Thom province on Wednesday claimed that illegal logging is continuing unabated, no thanks to local authorities and powerful individuals whom they allege are aiding the perpetrators.

While acknowledging that forest clearing still exists in the area, forestry officials claimed the illegal activities are on a small scale.

The Prey Lang forest is home to at least 27 endangered animals and 20 endangered plant species. But it suffers badly from illegal logging.

Prey Lang activist Sok Plaok said his team including rangers and military police officers found evidence of clearing while patrolling the forest on October 13-15.

“We know that illegal logging is increasing. We found tractors and other equipment. There were hundreds of tractors.

“When we slept near the road, we saw a long line of trucks smuggling timber. They took away the wood and left the stumps. What remains now are shreds of timber that have no value,” he said.

Plaok claimed the authorities have turned a blind eye as the illicit activities took place not far from the forestry administration office.

Prov incia l Forestr y Administration head Bun Sothy said he had not received any report about forest clearing in Prey Lang. He said t he area is under t he jurisdiction of t he prov incia l env ironment department.

“I work for t he forest r y administration, which oversees dif ferent areas,” he said, referring reporters to prov incia l env ironment department officia ls.

Department director Tob Kakada could not be reached for comment on Wednesday.

Environment Ministry spokesperson Neth Pheaktra said officials met with Prey Lang activists on October 3 to receive their report on illegal logging in the forest.

“We acknowledge that forest crimes still exist, but they were within limits. It’s not on a massive scale but involves only minor offenders.

“We’ll take more action to reduce t he offence. The community’s participation will help strengthen [t he laws.] We encourage them to do so,” he said.

Prey Lang spans four provinces including Preah Vihear, Kampong Thom, Kratie and Stung Treng. It was designated a protected wildlife sanctuary by sub-decree signed by Prime Minister Hun Sen in March 2016.