The chairman of the Village Development Committee (VDC) of Simbara Khai, Baboucarr Camara, has raised concern over illegal tree cutting and rising insecurity linked to suspected foreign herdsmen.

In a formal complaint, Camara said that on 20 April 2026, a Fulani herder believed to be from neighbouring Senegal was found cutting and trimming trees to feed livestock—an act he warned threatens local vegetation and conservation efforts.

He alleged that when he attempted to intervene, the individual threatened him with a cutlass, creating fear among residents.

Camara said the incident reflects a broader pattern, citing increasing reports of cross-border herdsmen engaging in uncontrolled tree cutting, as well as suspected illegal timber harvesting in the village forest, often at night.

He added that the matter has been reported to forestry authorities and the district chief, and that joint monitoring efforts, including patrols during Ramadan, have so far failed to lead to any arrests.

Camara warned that without urgent action, the village’s forest resources face serious destruction.