Free Web Site - Free Web Space and Site Hosting - Web Hosting - Internet Store and Ecommerce Solution Provider - High Speed Internet
Search the Web

KAPIT - Three "strategic" locations along a logging road in Mujong timber concession area were on Monday reported to have been blockaded.

A source from the timber company concerned was reported as saying that the blockades were 5 kilometres, 5.5 kilometres and 7 kilometres, respectively, from the company's base camp.

"Each barricade is manned by one person. The people involved are believed to be local Ibans aged between 30 and 50 years," the source was quoted as saying.

A fee of RM50 is imposed on each light vehicle passing through each "check point" on its way to the base camp, whereas a log-laden lorry is charged RM150. Another fee would be charged again if the vehicle goes out of the base camp. Hence, the total amounts to be paid for a round trip are RM300 for light vehicles and RM600 for lorries.

A receipt is issued for each payment as proof that the 'toll' has been collected. Drivers who are unable to pay the 'toll' would be told to return to wherever they came from.

It was reported that the barricades were constructed with bamboo stems and wood, and the individuals who are manning the points are not armed with any weapon. They carry only receipt books and pens.

The affected logging company has lodged a police report over the matter and the local police when contacted confirmed receiving the report and that they are investigating the case. It is believed that a police party has been despatched to the scene.

This is the first such incident in this division this year.