Conviction rate is low due to weak law in Anantapur: DGP J V Ramud

Anantapur: DGP J.V. Ramudu said that not even one smuggler has been convicted despite many cases related to smuggling red sanders registered, thanks to weak laws on the subject. "Amendment in the Act would bring stringent action against smugglers," the DGP observed and added the AP Assembly had passed a resolution proposing necessary changes.

The DGP was in Kadapa as part of a one day visit to hold review meetings with police officers in the district regarding the red sander issue. Speaking to the media, Mr Ramudu said that rich 'quality' of red sanders trees is existed in Seshachalam forest and majority of trees (quantity) in Kadapa district.

Demand for the red sanders logs being used in various produces and furniture, the rich quality of red sanders had demand in the international market that forcing the smugglers.

"Our teams have acted on the matter over the past two years and nabbed a number of international, inter-state and local smugglers in various parts of the country including detaining of Kollam Gangi Reddy," the DGP said. However, wood cutters from other states were entering the forest, Mr Ramudu added.

Amendment in the Act would punish smugglers with heavy penalty of up to Rs 5 lakh along with imprisonment. Further base camps and dog squads would be used to help police fight smuggling activities.

Speaking about the need to set up CC cameras at every shop, the DGP J.V. Ramudu hoped crime rate would come down with CC camera surveillance. He said a drive will be taken up to create awareness among the people to set up CC cameras at every shop in all urban parts in the state.

Mr Ramudu inaugurated CC camera surveillance system at one town police station during his visit. He also distributed awards to police officials who made efforts to nab international smugglers.