( 1 ) IN this petition, the petitioner has sought to challenge the legality and correctness of the order of confiscation made by the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Sagar Division and confirmed by the Sessions Judge, Shimoga, in Cr. M/s. Appeal No. 181.

( 2 ) IT is stated, on the night intervening 31. 3. 1981 and 1. 4. 1981, when the Range Forest Officer alongwith his subordinates was going on patrol duty, he found the matador van bearing No. CNW 55 going towards Anavatti on Siralkoppa - Anavatti Road and when the same was stopped. it was found to contain 61 sandal wood billets and 98 root pieces of sandal wood. Further, it is stated, when the vehicle was stopped, come present in the van made their escape good and Ashoka was callght red handed. Accordingly a report was made to the Court as also the respondent -I who issued a show cause notice to the petitioner regarding confiscation of the vehicle and having made the order regarding confiscation, the petitioner approached the Sessions Judge, in appeal. The learned Sessions Judge having confirmed the order of confiscation made by the 1st respondent, the petitioner has approached this court.

( 3 ) THE contention of t