15 Red Sanders Smugglers Arrested in Annamayya District

Swift Summary

• The Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force (RSASTF) arrested 15 smugglers and seized 15 logs of red sanders during a combing operation on Thursday in the Sanipaya forest ranges, Annamayya district.
• Two cars allegedly used for smuggling operations were also confiscated by RSASTF officials.
• Smugglers were intercepted near Appayyagaripalli beat while loading red sanders; even though they tried too escape, the task force managed to apprehend them.
• Those arrested are reported to be locals from annamayya and Chittoor districts in Andhra Pradesh.
• Confiscated items, including logs and vehicles, have been moved to RSASTF’s police station in Tirupati for further investigation.
• Deputy Superintendent of Police V. Srinivasa Reddy and Assistant Conservator of Forests J. Srinivas are leading interrogations into the case.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The successful operation is a meaningful win for forest protection efforts, as red sanders smuggling has long been a challenge due to thier high international demand for use in luxury goods and customary remedies. Such coordinated actions underline India’s commitment towards safeguarding endangered resources like red sanders while reinforcing enforcement capacities within ecologically sensitive areas like Annamayya forests.

Additionally, apprehending locals involved suggests possible socio-economic factors that drive individuals toward illegal activities-an area policymakers may want to address through enhanced livelihood programs or awareness campaigns about environmental preservation laws. Continued vigilance by special forces such as RSASTF is crucial to combating organized smuggling networks with broader international connections.

Read more: Published – September 11, 2025 at 06:47 pm IST.