Moldova environmental inspectors detect illegal logging and issue fines

Environmental inspectors in Moldova have uncovered significant instances of illegal logging during recent inspections. Between September 1 and 17, 12 controls conducted in forests managed by Moldsilva and local authorities revealed approximately 136 cubic meters of illegally extracted wood, resulting in fines totaling 161,950 lei.

Separate incidents in the Drochia and Nisporeni districts between September 14 and 16 involved the illegal cutting of over 160 trees. In Drochia, 129 trees were cut in a protective forest strip, causing an estimated environmental damage of 37,965 lei. In Nisporeni, illegal cutting of oak and maple trees was also detected. Authorities have issued fines of 12,500 lei for the Nisporeni violations, and in some cases, the extracted wood was recovered by forestry enterprises.

Minister of Environment Gheorghe Hajder has urged forestry enterprise directors to intensify measures against illegal logging and ensure transparency by providing fiscal receipts and invoices for every sale. Citizens are advised to purchase wood only from legal sources and to report suspicious activities to the Environmental Protection Inspectorate.