By Ebrima Bah
In a determined effort to combat deforestation, the Nioro Jattabacommunity on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, impounded logs suspected to be illegally cut from their communal forest.
This latest incident comes amidst a growing concern over the rapid depletion of trees in the area. The community reported discovering about 20 endangered trees recently felled without authorisation from the village head (Alkalo) or the forestry authorities. This adds to the estimated hundreds of trees already lost in recent months.
Frustration within the community stems from a previous incident where they reported similar forest damage to the Lower River Region’s Forestry Office. However, the authorities allegedly prioritised the sale of recovered logs over proper investigation and prosecution. No justice was served. This time, however, the forestry office appears to be taking some action. Mr. Jola Bojang from Dumbuto Forest Station stated that his office is preparing summons for the suspected individuals to appear before the Kiang West District Tribunal. He indicated a possible trial date after Ramadan.
Despite these developments, the Nioro community remains apprehensive regarding the administration of justice for forestry crimes. Mr. Jabel Bah, spokesperson for the Alkalo, expressed concern that cases are rarely addressed effectively, hindering efforts to protect the forest cover.
Mr. Sheriff (Sabally) Bah, a youth leader, raised further concerns. He claimed the forestry office attempted to sell the impounded logs before any legal proceedings even began. “Both Mr. Yaya Sanyang and Mr. Jola Bojang claimed it was an instruction from the Regional Forestry Officer in Mansakonko to release the logs to a vendor, prompting strong opposition from the village.”
Residents insisted that the previous mistake should not be repeated, demanding that the logs remain safeguarded until a competent court hears the case.
Lamin Bajo, Regional Forestry Officer in Mansakonko, reacting to the allegations regarding the handling of logged wood in the area emphasised that he and his staff strictly follow the Forestry Act. He explained that in some instances, to maintain a positive relationship with the community, they may allow residents to move logs to a designated safe location as in the case at hand.
Regarding the incident in June 2023, Mr. Bajo confirmed that a case was reported but due to the inability to identify any suspects, the case could not be pursued in court.