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Sandalwood haul seized in Dar
2006-02-14 07:50:19
By Patrick Kisembo
The government has impounded a consignment of sandalwood that was being prepared for export
A surprise visit by Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Anthony Diallo, Permanent Secretary Salehe Pamba, two ministry officials and journalists to Tabata Railway Station in Dar es Salaam found the wood hidden at a yard awaiting shipment abroad.
The group found a consignment of sandalwood stored outside the warehouse that has been closed down.
Speaking to journalists afterwards, Permanent Secretary Salehe Pamba said the government had banned sandalwood exports.
The PS said a Good Samaritan had informed them of the existence of the warehouse that serves as a holding yard for sandalwood destined for markets abroad in spite of the ban.
It was also learnt that the owner goes to his office at night and even his neighbours do not know his full name.
He was identified by one name only as Shook, who is said to be of Asian origin. He operates his business at night, they said.
The PS said the owner is believed to have two more warehouses in Kurasini and another in Gongo la Mboto.
Diallo told journalists that the government had banned logging and harvesting of forest products with effect from January 27.
Diallo, however, clarified that the logs can be sold within the country .
’’But it is illegal to export sandalwood. We don’t allow it,’’ he said.
The minister said security will be beefed up all over the country to ensure that the ban is enforced.
’’Our security guards used to look after animals, but now they have to take care of forests and fisheries too,’’ said Diallo.
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