Sabah Parks rangers uncover 10 camps linked to agarwood poaching in Crocker Range

KOTA KINABALU – Sabah Parks rangers have uncovered at least 10 illegal campsites believed to have been used by gaharu (agarwood) poachers in the protected Crocker Range area during a recent operation.

Dubbed Ops Spider, the special enforcement operation was conducted for the first time from Oct 29 to Nov 11, involving 40 field rangers and general assistants.

The operation focused on the Crocker Range zone stretching from the west coast to the interior, covering about 60km.

"During the operation, we found 10 former campsites believed to have been used by gaharu thieves and poachers," Sabah Parks Enforcement Unit's Aldrin Peter Aloysius wrote in a Facebook post.

He said the rangers seized all equipment left behind and destroyed dangerous items in accordance with procedures.

The enforcement team had to trek through jungles, muddy areas and hilly, uneven terrain during the operation.

Aloysius said the operation was successful, with all 10 illegal campsites cleared.

He said the initiative marked the beginning of more systematic enforcement efforts to protect Sabah's parks from encroachment, illegal activities and the destruction of natural resources.

Gaharu is used in high-end perfumes, essential oils, traditional medicines and incense.

Illegal harvesting of gaharu can contribute to forest degradation, threaten wild tree species with extinction and lead to secondary wildlife poaching.

Meanwhile, nature lovers have until Friday (Nov 13) to see the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, in bloom at the Tropical Garden, Poring Hot Springs Substation in Kinabalu Park.

The Rafflesia keithii, which has six petals and measures 65cm across, has been reported in bloom at the location since Monday (Nov 9). –THE STAR