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Arrested for Illegal Logging: Theft of Timber Valued at $12 Million

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• A 54-year-old man was captured in Pitrufquén while illegally cutting down Monterey pine trees on a property, causing estimated economic damage in the millions.

In an operation carried out by the Investigative Police (PDI), a man was arrested in the La Araucanía region, specifically on a property in Pitrufquén, for the illegal logging of trees. The 54-year-old individual was caught in the act while cutting down Monterey pine trees with a chainsaw on the San Francisco estate, covering an area of one hectare.

Prefect Luis Garrido, head of the PDI Prefecture in Cautín, reported that the felled trees were between 18 to 20 years old and that the value of the stolen timber amounts to approximately 12 million pesos. The crime was detected in real-time, allowing for the immediate capture of the individual.

During the operation, the tool used by the man to commit the crime was seized. The PDI is conducting additional investigations to determine the possible destination of the stolen timber and to establish whether more individuals are involved in this criminal act.

Illegal logging is a serious crime that not only entails significant economic losses for property owners but also has a negative impact on the environment and local biodiversity. This case highlights the importance of surveillance and swift action by authorities to prevent and penalize such acts.

The arrest of this individual is a step forward in the fight against the illegal exploitation of natural resources, and it is hoped that it will serve as a deterrent for those considering engaging in similar activities.