The suspects were caught in Nahuta village, along the Darazo-Bauchi Federal Highway, during a routine surveillance mission led by the Director General of BASEPA, Dr. Mahmud Bose.
According to Dr. Bose, he encountered the offenders while travelling along the highway and decided to investigate their activities without disclosing his identity.
Dr. Bose explained that he made a discreet phone call away from the suspects to request police backup from the Darazo Division. He also contacted the Chairman of Darazo Local Government Council, who later joined them at the scene. When the police arrived, the offenders realized the seriousness of their actions and were subsequently arrested and taken into police custody.
In an interview with newsmen, the leader of the suspects, who hails from Gombe State, admitted to purchasing the tree from a land vendor in Nahuta village. His plan was to fell and process the tree into timber for profit. He acknowledged that tree felling is illegal and expressed regret, stating that it was his first time being apprehended for such an offence.
As of the time of this report, the four suspects remain in police custody in Darazo, where investigations are ongoing. Authorities have indicated that the offenders will be prosecuted in accordance with the relevant environmental protection laws.
Written By Nana Ismail