NONG KHAI — Thai authorities have dismantled a major international timber smuggling operation, seizing 28,000 kilograms of protected Burmese rosewood worth an estimated 14 million baht ($439,000) in a warehouse raid in Nong Khai province. The bust exposed a sophisticated network allegedly involving corrupt officials and local politicians.

Three arrested for allegedly felling protected Siamese rosewood tree in Korat forest

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) announced the operation on Wednesday, revealing that the ring had smuggled over 1.2 billion baht ($37 million) worth of illicit timber since early 2023. Two Thai nationals—shipping agents coordinating with loggers—and five Laotian loaders were arrested, while the Vietnamese warehouse owner fled minutes before the raid.

Investigators identified two primary smuggling routes: overland transport to Laos and Vietnam via ten-wheel trucks, and maritime shipments to China through Laem Chabang Port. Foreign financiers allegedly funded logging operations in northern Thailand, hiring villagers to cut down protected trees in conserved forests.

The seized rosewood originated from Chiang Mai and Tak provinces. Authorities are now targeting two key northern brokers, including a former Chiang Mai local politician, as part of an expanding probe into corruption and high-level facilitation. The case highlights Thailand’s ongoing struggle against illegal logging and cross-border environmental crime.

Three arrested with protected Siamese rosewood in Si Sa Ket

The DSI vowed to pursue all suspects, emphasizing zero tolerance for illegal timber trafficking and its devastating impact on natural resources. The operation marks a significant step in regional efforts to combat organized forest crime.

-Thailand News (TN)