Yeoju City Implements Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Forest Fire Offenders

[Suwon Ilbo=Reporter Eom In-yong] Yeoju City announced on the 10th that it will implement a zero-tolerance policy to strictly punish those responsible for forest fires in efforts to prevent large-scale forest fires.

The city experienced two forest fires on March 22, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. In particular, a forest fire in the Gangcheon-myeon Ganmae-ri and Bupyeong-ri areas occurred when garbage was burned in farmland near forestland, resulting in the loss of approximately 7 hectares of woodland.

As a result, the two forest fire offenders were referred to the prosecution with criminal charges and recommendation for indictment under violation of the Forest Protection Act and, pursuant to Article 53, Paragraph 5 of the Forest Protection Act, may face imprisonment of up to three years or a fine not exceeding 30 million won.

According to Article 34 of the Forest Protection Act, no one is permitted to start fires, smoke, or engage in similar activities in forests or areas adjacent to forests (within 100 meters of forestland). The city has issued strict penalties for illegal forest fire-related activities, including imposing administrative fines in three cases this year alone.

Meanwhile, the city has issued administrative orders restricting illegal incineration, smoking in areas adjacent to forests, and possession of flammable materials by people entering mountain areas.

Jang Hong-gi, director of the city's Forest and Parks Division, stated, "The city is mobilizing all administrative resources to prevent forest fires, and we will strictly punish any forest fire offenders according to a zero-tolerance principle during this critical period." He added, "We will work closely with relevant agencies including the fire department, military units, and police to respond swiftly to fires and minimize casualties and property damage for residents."