The Environmental Supervision Department of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture identified 137 cases of illegal forest use across Georgia between April 1 and April 30, 2025, as part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on environmental violations.
According to official data, 98 cases involved illegal logging and timber transportation, while 39 cases were related to violations of technical regulations by sawmills, including the operation of illegal and unregistered facilities. Of the total violations, 15 cases contain signs of criminal offenses and have been forwarded to relevant authorities for further action.
The Kakheti region recorded the highest number of violations, with 45 cases, followed by Imereti (25), Adjara (21), Samtskhe-Javakheti (16), and Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti (13). Smaller numbers were reported in Shida Kartli (7), Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti (4), Guria (4), and one case each in Mtskheta-Mtianeti and Kvemo Kartli.
In total, more than 141 cubic meters of illegally harvested timber were seized. Authorities also sealed nine unregistered sawmills during the same period.
From January through April 2025, the department uncovered 649 cases of illegal forest use across the country and shut down 29 illegal sawmills.
Environmental patrol units continue to operate 24/7 nationwide to monitor and prevent violations related to illegal logging, hunting, fishing, and other environmental offenses. Citizens are encouraged to report incidents through the Ministry’s hotline 153 for immediate response.
The Environmental Supervision Department reaffirmed that the fight against illegal forest use remains a top priority.