KUALA LUMPUR – A police report has been lodged by the Johor Forestry Department over the alleged encroachment of Gunung Panti near Kota Tinggi by almost 20 hikers.
The department received a public complaint that a hike took place without a permit on December 20.
In a statement yesterday, it said photos of the hikers have been uploaded by Facebook user “Austin Glenn – Hiking Johor”.
In the police report, the department asked that the participants give their statements to the Kota Tinggi forest rangers’ office and investigation officer Azamuddin Kassan.
“The hiking and recreational area on Gunung Panti is under the purview of the state Forestry Department, and it is suspected that the participants entered without a permit.
“In doing so, it is an offence under Section 47, Act 313. If found guilty, the penalty is a fine of not more than RM10,000, or a jail term not exceeding three years, or both.
“The department is advising the public to adhere to the rules and regulations set regarding entry into permanent forest reserves. All hiking and recreational activities in permanent forest reserves require permits.”
The participants have a week to come forward. – The Vibes, December 27, 2020
