Forestry firms violate permits

Forestry firms violate permits

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Some 200 hectares of forest land
have been illegally exploited by seven forestry firms in Mamuju
regency, regent Almalik Pababari claimed on Friday.

"The firms have violated their permits by extending their
operations, which have now exploited a total of 200 hectares,"
Almalik told The Jakarta Post.

He said the regency would take stern action against the firms
for violating their permits. He did not say what kind of action
would be taken.

The regent admitted that he had experienced difficulty in
contacting the owners of the firms as most of were based in
Jakarta.

"Only one firm is owned by a local businessman, the others
have their offices in Jakarta," he complained. (30/jun)