Authorities in Vientiane Province seize and destroy illegal timber.

[ASEAN NOW]

 

Authorities in the Kasi District of Vientiane Province have confiscated and destroyed illegal timber.

 

According to the Lao Phattana Daily, 170 pieces of hardwood were seized in Bouakxang Mountain in Kasi District's Nongsan Village.

 

Authorities have agreed to auction off 94 blocks of illegal timber to raise funds for the government.

 

The remaining 76 blocks of illegally harvested timber were destroyed as a deterrent to future unlawful logging.

 

Meanwhile, locals have gone to social media to voice their anger at the authorities for destroying the timber.

 

Users said, "Rather of destroying this fine grade hardwood, why don't authorities use it as useable material or create tables and seats for public schools?"

 

According to Prime Minister's Order No. 15/PM, any unlawful timber left at the location where it was harvested must not be collected or stockpiled.

 

According to the notification, timbers collected in excess of the allowed quota are confiscated and become the property of the state, with violators facing harsh penalties.