Red sandalwood worth ₹1.75 crore seized in Bengaluru, five arrested

Bengaluru police have seized red sandalwood worth Rs 1.75 crore after cracking two inter-state smuggling cases linked to a larger illegal network. Acting on a specific tip-off, police teams intercepted vehicles carrying the valuable timber in the Hulimavu and R T Nagar police limits. The tip-off came from an informer or local contact who provided details about the smuggling, likely for reward or legal leniency.

The consignments had reportedly originated from Andhra Pradesh, a region often used as a transit point for red sandalwood movement. According to City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, one load was headed toward Tamil Nadu, while the other was meant for delivery within Bengaluru.

A total of four vehicles were seized, and five individuals were arrested for allegedly transporting the contraband. Police said the operation highlights increasing attempts to move red sandalwood across state borders, and investigations are underway to identify the larger network behind the smuggling.

Red sandalwood is used in Ayurvedic medicine, skin-care products, natural dyes, and for making high-value furniture, carvings, and musical instruments like shamisen. It also has strong demand in countries like China for traditional medicines and luxury woodwork.It mainly grows in Andhra Pradesh (largest producer, especially Rayalaseema region) and to a lesser extent in Tamil Nadu, with small patches in Karnataka.

Red sandalwood smuggling is a serious crime in India. Offenders can face 3–10 years of imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 lakh, with vehicles and timber seized. Repeat or large-scale smugglers may get heavier jail terms and property confiscation.