A gendarmerie operation has thwarted alleged illegal timber exploitation in the Antsampandrano forest station, located in Ambohibary commune, Antsirabe II district. Caught off guard by the arrival of law enforcement, the individuals present fled the scene, abandoning two ox-drawn carts deep in the forest. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 24. Around 4 p.m., the local Water and Forests official alerted the commander of Ambohibary's gendarmerie outpost, reporting suspected illegal logging within the Antsampandrano forest station. A patrol was immediately dispatched to verify the information. Upon arrival, the gendarmes found two carts being loaded while individuals continued felling trees. Upon spotting the military personnel, they abandoned their equipment and carts before disappearing into the forest. The two carts and oxen were taken to Ambohibary commune, where they were placed under administrative seizure. According to initial investigation findings, the carts were reportedly used by two residents of Ambohimadinika fokontany, including a 14-year-old minor. At this stage, their involvement must be established through ongoing investigations. The Regional Directorate of Environment and Sustainable Development (DREDD) of Vakinankaratra, through its Water and Forests service, has announced a field operation to conduct necessary observations and open an investigation. The case proceedings now fall under this competent administration. Beyond this intervention, this case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by control services in protecting forest resources. Faced with a surge in clandestine exploitation, cooperation between Water and Forests agents and security forces remains essential for preserving an already severely threatened natural heritage.