The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Haveri): In a significant crackdown within Haveri district’s dense forests, local forest authorities apprehended two individuals, marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing battle against wildlife crimes. Among the detained was a particularly sought-after poacher, identified as Saddam, a 33-year-old hailing from Shiralakoppa village located in the Shivamogga district. The arrest occurred under the cloak of darkness on a Sunday evening, casting a spotlight on the relentless efforts of conservation officials to protect vulnerable wildlife.
The operation, which unfolded in the Hanumapur reserve forest overseen by the Hangal range officials, also implicated Naveed, aged 22, alongside Mubarak and Zafar, both 23 years old, all of whom share their roots in Shiralakoppa village. This group faced accusations centered around an audacious attempt to hunt down a deer, an act thwarted by vigilant forest guards who detected the echo of gunshots piercing the night. In their possession, a cache of illicit hunting tools was discovered, including a firearm, ten rounds of ammunition, a machete, and additional bladed instruments, evidencing their preparedness for the grim task at hand.
Girish Chougala, the officer in charge of the Hangal Forest Range, recounted the sequence of events leading to their capture. His team’s prompt response to the sound of gunfire disrupted the poachers’ plans, prompting a desperate escape that resulted in a collision with a vehicle belonging to the forest staff. Chougala’s revelations painted Saddam as a figure deeply entrenched in illegal wildlife activities, with a history that suggested involvement in various nefarious deeds beyond the night’s events. Further investigation into Saddam’s background unveiled a stolen vehicle linked to the crime, traced back to Haryana, adding layers to the complexity of the case.
Investigations into Saddam’s past activities unearthed chilling evidence on his mobile phone, showcasing footage of numerous hunting expeditions across Karnataka’s wilderness. This discovery prompted authorities to proceed with a forensic examination of the device, aiming to uncover additional insights into his criminal undertakings.
In the aftermath, Balakrishna S, the Deputy Conservator of Forests for Haveri, emphasized the department’s commitment to apprehending the remaining suspects, signaling an intensified effort to dismantle the network responsible for endangering the region’s wildlife. This incident not only underscores the ongoing challenges faced by conservationists but also highlights the critical role of vigilance and swift action in the protection of natural habitats and their inhabitants.
