NEGARA ~ Citizens of Pulukan Village went to the Agriculture, Forestry and Maritime Department in Jembrana last Wednesday to question officials about the felling of trees in the area, a representative said.
The citizens said they were furious at their village chief, who allegedly allowed trees to be cut without their consent.
Member of the village assembly Ujang Herman said the assembly was never involved in any discussions about cutting trees for repairs on the village’s public hall.
“After the problem arose, the chief called a meeting,” resident of Pulukan Mohammad Tohir said.
Head of the village assembly Arianto met with the regent of Jembrana, Gede Winasa, last week to explain the case and show the villagers commitment to protect the forest.
Another resident of the village, Sukarma, said the workers who cut down the trees were not from Pulukan.
“The case is still being investigated by police, who have collected evidence,” head of the Agriculture, Forestry and Maritime Department IGN Sandjaja said.