The special taskforce on illegal mining and deforestation has expressed concern over the alleged issuance of receipts in Baisa, Kurmi Local Government of Taraba State, by the state chapter of the Timbers Suppliers Association.
The taskforce led by Gen. Jeremiah Aliyu Faransa (retd) expressed concerns on Thursday in a press statement made available to journalists in Jalingo, the state capital.
The taskforce disapproved of the association’s actions, citing previous directives that suspended all receipt issuance from any quarters as per the government’s instructions.
Faransa sternly warned the association to desist from such practises immediately or face severe consequences.
He emphasised that the special taskforce operatives would soon conduct an extensive operation within the state.
According to him, trucks transporting wood found with such receipts will be dealt with decisively, reinforcing the commitment to curbing illegal timber transactions in Taraba State.
Governor Agbu Kefas, in May 2023, placed an embargo on all forms of mining and the felling of trees, especially rosewood.
The taskforce headed by the retired army general was inaugurated to foil the activities of illegal miners and those who took illegal felling of trees as a business.
