Gendarmes responsible for security along the Pangalanes Canal have once again intervened against the illegal transport of timber. On October 28, 2026, around 2 a.m., they intercepted a boat carrying wood without authorization during a control operation in Tapakala, in the commune of Amboditandroho, Toamasina II district.
The arrangement of the cargo aroused their suspicions and led them to search the vessel. The transporters had hidden the wood at the bottom of the boat to keep it out of sight. A total of 278 pieces of wood of various forest species were discovered: 108 round logs, 46 four-meter planks, 60 two-meter planks, 52 four-meter squared timbers, and 12 two-meter boards.
The individuals on board presented no documents justifying the legality of the transport. According to information gathered, the cargo was intended to be sold in the city of Toamasina. Two men were arrested and taken into custody. All the wood was seized, and the case was transferred to the Atsinanana Regional Department of Environment and Sustainable Development for further legal action.
Authorities have announced the continuation and strengthening of patrols and checks along the entire canal to combat the abusive exploitation of natural resources and illicit trafficking.
Captured & Published at: 2026-11-04 06:24:20 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/11/toamasina-ii-saisie-de-pres-de-trois.html