Illegal logs seized at former Sayyaf camp

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January 12, 2026 | 12:00am

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — A joint team of the police and the military seized a pile of illegally cut logs at a former camp of the Abu Sayyaf group in Sumisip, Basilan on Saturday.

The operation in the hinterlands of Barangay Mahatalang was the largest enforcement and environmental protection initiative launched by the provincial government through the “Sagip Kalikasan” program.

“Sagip Kalikasan” intends to save and protect the forest around the Sampinit Complex against illegal loggers.

The area served as a camp of Abu Sayyaf bandits, but is now a haven for trekkers and mountaineers.

Basilan Gov. Mujiv Hataman ordered the implementation of “Sagip Kalikasan” to protect the province’s forests, rivers and coastlines, while also creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Troopers from the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion as well as members of the Sumisip police and city environment and resources office raided the area following reports of illegal logging activities.

No one was arrested during the raid, which resulted in the seizure of 24 illegally felled logs valued at P92,054, police said.

Probers have yet to identify the owner of the logs.

Hataman warned residents against engaging in illegal logging and reminded them about the effects of destroying the forest.