Procedure when offender is not known or cannot be found

When the offender is not known or cannot be found the Magistrate if he is of the opinion that an offence has been committed, subject to section 49 (G) may, on application in this behalf, order the property in respect of which the offence has been committed to be confiscated and taken possession of by or under the authority of the District Forest Officer, or to be made over to any person whom the Magistrate considers to be entitled to the same: Provided that no such order shall be made until the expiration of one month from the date of seizing such property, or without hearing the person (if any) claiming any right hereto, and the evidence (if any) which he may produce in support of the claim. The Magistrate shall cause a notice of any application under this section to be served upon any person whom he has reason to believe is interested in the property seized, or shall publish such notice in any way which he thinks fit.