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Published on August 4, 2007

Villagers discovered the felled area on July 16.

Owners of backhoes used in the logging gave evidence to police yesterday.

"We cannot say anything more at the moment because the investigation continues but, as we head towards an arrest, we will inform the public, said Chiang Rai Police Captain Samrit Singha.

Expecting the investigation to be wrapped up in a week, he said he suspected a "huge, underground illegal-logging organisation headed by well-known figures".

Police Third Region Lt-General Jiradetch Khotcharat added that suspects were not associated with the military or the state. He called on provincial governors in the North to deal with illegal logging, as the Army has evidence that it is widespread.

Jirat Prasertsup

Citylife

CHIANG MAI