- Jaba Forest-police collusion facilitates smugglers in evading checkpoints
- Thhati Bangla checkpoint personnel and Malakwal patrol staff are implicated
Soon Times Correspondent
Khushab / Chakwal / Talagang / Attock
Despite Section 144, deforestation continues in the Soon Valley, with valuable timber being smuggled into KP. Corrupt individuals within the Forest Department and Punjab Police aid these operations. This mafia’s influence is so extensive that timber is successfully smuggled out across three districts, Khushab, Talagang, and Attock, by evading the police. The Jaba police checkpoint at Nowshera’s Soon Valley is central to this operation, with forest department posts reportedly taking bribes and allowing timber-loaded trucks to pass. From there, Talagang’s Thhati Bangla checkpoint also turns a blind eye, profiting from the smugglers. Even at the Attock bridge crossing, the mafia pays its way, eventually delivering timber into KP. The Daily Soon Times team flagged a timber-laden trolley to PS Sadar Talagang patrol officers. Officer Nasir initially assured action but later compromised and released the smugglers. The Soon Valley, a tourist destination, benefits from its forests, which regulate temperatures and enhance natural beauty. Yet, for years, prized wild Kaho (Oleander) wood has been recklessly logged and trafficked to KP, where it’s used for fuel in furnaces. The people urge IG Punjab to take notice, questioning why, despite media coverage, the DPOs of Khushab, Talagang, and Attock remain indifferent. They demand the suspension of officers involved in corruption. Local residents appeal to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to request reports from the DPOs and DCs of the three districts. They seek answers as to why Section 144 is not being enforced and demand accountability for those responsible.
