Stung Treng, Cambodia:  Authorities in Stung Treng province have arrested a man in connection with the illegal logging of large teal trees in the Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Toal Village, Anlong Phe Commune, Thalaburiwat District.

On February 2, 2025, Stung Treng Governor Sar Soputra announced that the suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is a resident of the area where the illegal tree cutting occurred. The individual claimed ownership of the land from which the teal trees were removed.

Governor Soputra stated that the trees were cut down under the pretext of resin extraction. He emphasized that encroachment and illegal logging activities were masked by this claim. While police are actively searching for several other individuals linked to the incident, reports indicate that these parties have fled the area. Most of those involved are believed to be local residents.

Governor Soputra pledged to pursue legal action against all individuals implicated in the illegal logging activities without exception. 

In recent days, authorities discovered that dozens of large teal trees had been felled, with the timber reportedly used for construction purposes. The incident involved the cutting down of a total of 56 teal trees, including 49 new and 7 mature trees, each with diameters ranging from 40 to 100 centimeters. The site, marked with spray paint, indicates plans for further deforestation amid surrounding rubber plantations.

The working group investigating the case concluded that the activities carried out involved felling, sawing, and splitting trees, representing a significant encroachment on forested land.