Illegal logging at Wun Paik mangrove forest in Arakan State’s Ramree Township has decreased significantly due to the help of the people, said the Wun Paik Mangrove Forest Conservation Group, which is formed of local residents.

Since September 15, residents from 14 villages near the mangrove forest have made citizens’ arrests of people involved in illegal logging as well as providing awareness activities amid concerns about mangrove deforestation due to illegal logging.

More than 50 boats cutting firewood in the mangrove forest were apprehended between September 15 and November 9, and illegal logging has shown signs of decreasing, said Sayadaw Ashin Maheinda, patron of Wun Paik Mangrove Forest Conservation Group.

“We release them after they are told to sign a pledge not to commit [illegal logging] again. The rate of illegal logging is down by 75% now,” said Ashin Maheinda.

He said the conservation group needs the financial aid of donors for transportation and other expenditures to maintain the mangrove forest over the long term.

Military forces, police and forest department personnel patrolled together from November 3-7 in an effort to determine the extent of illegal logging in the mangrove forest.

Ko Chit Lwin, executive member of the conservation group, suggested that the cooperation of the people is required to protect the mangrove forest.