Berane Authorities Charge Local Timber Mill Owner with Theft

Authorities in Berane have charged local timber mill owner N.F. (61) with forest theft following an investigation led by the Regional Security Centre “North.” Officers from the security department identified the alleged crime as part of their ongoing efforts to combat ecological crime in the region.

During an inspection at N.F.’s mill, located in the municipality of Berane, officers discovered 10.93 cubic meters of illegally harvested fir timber. Subsequently, they initiated a process to trace the origin of the timber and notified the Forest Management Authority.

Following the police report, inspectors from the Forest Management Authority located the site of the illegal cutting, which occurred in the Jelovica Mountain area. This information led to further action by the police, who communicated their findings to the appropriate state prosecutor. As a result, the prosecutor ordered that a criminal complaint be filed against N.F. for the suspected crime.

Investigators believe that N.F.’s unauthorized logging activities caused damage valued at approximately €2,750 to the Forest Management Authority.

In a statement, police officials emphasized their commitment to uncovering, preventing, and addressing crimes that lead to the destruction of natural resources. They reiterated that protecting the environment is a national priority and called on other relevant authorities to contribute to preserving biodiversity and preventing illegal forestry activities.

The police urged all organizations responsible for forest protection and management to collaborate in safeguarding these vital natural assets, reinforcing the need for strict enforcement of regulations governing timber harvesting.