The Mayor of Fnideq, Samiha Abd El-Hay, pointed out that "the area of the town of Fnideq is 45 million square meters, of which 20 million square meters are composed of rare and ancient forests, considered a national treasure, suffering for four years from cutting and destruction by a gang that knows neither tradition nor law, and whose members do not exceed the number of hands. They have caused extensive destruction and cutting, all comprised of green trees."
In a statement, Abd El-Hay appealed to Army Commander General Joseph Aoun, Director General of Internal Security Forces Major General Imad Othman, and all security agencies, the judiciary, and the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture, as well as the environmental prosecutor and stakeholders to find a solution to this problem.
He said, "The latest chapter of this criminal saga occurred last night when we came across a load of wood consisting of ancient green trees. We tried contacting all agencies, but to no avail. Members of the gang took control of the vehicle loaded with the wood under threat and intimidation, disregarding everyone present."
He added, "On behalf of myself and the people of Fnideq, I implore the Army Commander and call for action to deter this gang, whose members are cutting trees that are at least 500 years old and selling them for a pittance."
He concluded: "Our forests are at risk of extermination, and we demand the lifting of cover and accountability and punishment to deter those criminals."
