The Warrap government said it will not tolerate those who destroy the forests as deforestation has negative and long-lasting consequences on the future development of the state’s natural resources.
Agriculture and forestry minister Kuot Mawien urged local chiefs to prevent villagers from cutting trees, Don Bosco FM reported.He said mahogany trees and bamboos can be cut for domestic use.
The minister added that people need licenses from his ministry in order to sell timber.
Mr. Mawien said that any person found cutting mahoganies, bamboos and other trees for selling would face the court of law for their criminal acts.
He urged citizens to work together with the local authorities to report people involved in illegal felling.
The minister noted that Warrap state loses much income from illegal cutting of trees and other forest reserves.