“Ukhiya Forest Crackdown: Sand & Logs Seized!”

Nurul Islam Soman

23/02/2026: In a strong action against forest crimes, the Cox’s Bazar South Forest Division, in collaboration with the Upazila Administration and Ukhiya Range, intercepted an illegally sand-laden truck at Goyalmara in the Thangkhali beat of Ukhiya Range, following a secret tip-off. The mobile court, led by the Upazila Executive Officer of Ukhiya, fined the owner BDT 50,000 under the Sand Mahal and Soil Management Act, 2013.

Later in the evening, at around 8:00 PM, another operation in a remote forest area near Chaderkhola, adjacent to Rohingya Camp 20 in Thangkhali Beat, led to the recovery of approximately 20 cubic feet of various types of timber. A 25-member team, including local residents, participated in the operation. Legal action against the main culprits will be taken under the Forest Act, 1927, following a full investigation.

Authorities have seized the truck involved in illegal sand extraction, and preparations are underway to file a case under forest law.

This operation highlights the ongoing vigilance and strict enforcement by the forest department to protect Cox’s Bazar’s natural resources.