The forestry department on Tuesday found illegal waste dumped in a state forest in Pelendri that blocked vehicle access to a fire lane.

According to a statement from the forestry department, the area was cleaned up immediately in cooperation with the Pelendri community council.

Illegal waste dumping, it said, not only pollutes the area but also poses a risk to the fire protection of the area and its surroundings.

The forestry department added that pollution is observed daily from “the actions of inconsiderate citizens who dump waste, rubble, and all kinds of rubbish into the natural environment”.

The foresty department calls on the public to immediately notify the nearest forest station or call 1407 if they see waste dumped in state forests.

Any person who disposes waste within a state forest is guilty of an offence and may be subject to imprisonment for up to one year and/or a fine of up to €5000.