In a significant operation against illegal timber trade, the Red Sanders’ Anti-Smuggling Task Force (RSASTF) in Kadapa district has successfully apprehended 18 individuals suspected of smuggling. The arrests, made on the Proddatur-Jammalamadugu route this past Saturday, led to the seizure of 16 precious red sanders logs, two vehicles, and an assortment of tools including axes and saw blades.
Led by L. Subbarayudu and SP P. Srinivas, the dedicated task force initiated vehicle inspections on Friday. Their vigilance paid off when two cars attempted to flee during a routine check at Peddasettipalli. Officers immediately gave chase, swiftly cornering and capturing the occupants. A subsequent search of the vehicles revealed the illicit cargo and equipment.
All eighteen individuals taken into custody have been identified as residents from Tamil Nadu. They, along with the confiscated red sanders and other items, have been transferred to the Tirupati RSASTF Police Station as the investigation continues to unfold.