YANGON, July 21 -- Myanmar authorities have seized 1.7 tons of illegal hardwood timbers in the outskirts of Yangon city, according to the Forest Department Sunday.
The seizure was made by the forest officials in Htaukkyant township, northern Yangon on Friday when a suspected car was intercepted with 35 pieces of illegal Pyingadoe hardwood being found.
However, the driver and his passenger fled the scene.
Township police is investigating into the case to arrest the suspects and charge them under the Forest Law.
The Forest Department is making concerted efforts to crack down on illegal logging and smuggling of timbers in the region, especially on the Yangon-Nay Pyi Taw expressway.
Meanwhile, Myanmar authorities also seized a six-wheeled truck, loaded with 7 tons of illegally harvested timbers, at a toll gate in Yangon's northern Hlegu township on June 14.