More thieves in C. Java forest

More thieves in C. Java forest

SEMARANG, Central Java: Theft of timber from Central Javan
forests has increased since the monetary crisis began last year.
Over 117,000 teak logs and 450 pine logs worth a total of Rp 1.44
billion have been stolen, an official said.

Sundoro, a spokesman for state-owned PT Perhutani forestry
company told The Jakarta Post Friday that the wave of timber
theft stemmed from current economic woes.

Thieves have been operating in large groups. One such group
was thought to have consisted of over 70 individuals, he said.

"Besides that, they have become more brutal and determined.
They even dare to shoot at the forest police unit when caught
red-handed," Sundoro said.

Perhutani believe the gangs include people who live far from
the forests.

Thefts have been perpetrated not only to get money to purchase
basic foodstuffs but also to meet secondary needs, such as
purchasing new motorcycles and having funs with friends, the
spokesman said.

Teak logs stolen include 34,000 from Pati, 14,000 from Blora,
11,000 from Purwodadi and 8,000 from Banyumas. Pine logs were
removed from a forest near Pekalongan, he said.

"The total value of the stolen teak logs is Rp 1.4 billion and
the pine logs are worth Rp 40 million," Sundoro said.

In an attempt to prevent the crime, Perhutani have initiated
labor intensive projects at locations around the targeted
forests. (har)