The Macedonian Forest Police conducted intensified operations against illegal logging across the country; during September and early October, over 500 cubic meters of illegally cut timber were seized, and 140 charges were filed.
Thirteen trucks, 17 passenger vehicles, and nine tractors were temporarily confiscated, along with chainsaws, trailers, axes, and other items used for illegal logging and timber transport.
These operations are being carried out alongside routine daily checks, with a particular focus on areas where organized groups of illegal loggers are most active. The inspections also aim to curb the illegal supply of timber to the public and to production facilities, activities that cause significant damage to forest resources.
“These intensified operations will continue in the coming period across the entire country. Forest protection is a matter of public interest and an institutional responsibility of ours. The Forest Police have the Ministry’s full support to act decisively and consistently against illegal logging, transport, and timber trading, within the scope of their legal authority,” said Macedonian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy Borche Serafimovski.