Bettathur: Two poachers were injured after Forest Department personnel opened fire in self-defence when the suspects allegedly attempted to run them over with a jeep during an anti-poaching operation in the Bettathur forest area of Madikeri taluk.
Forest Department officials stated that – they had received information that a group of poachers had hunted a Gaur and were returning from the forest. Acting on the tip-off, a team of forest personnel proceeded to the spot and attempted to intercept the poachers’ jeep. During the operation, the suspects tried to ram the jeep into the forest staff.
The forest personnel then opened fire in self-defence. Two of the poachers, identified as Zubair and Yakub, sustained gunshot injuries. The injured were immediately shifted to the Madikeri District Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment, both are reported to be out of danger.
Forest officials also seized 266 kg of Gaur meat and weapons from the accused at the scene.
Speaking to the media, Madikeri Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Abhishek V – said that the department would further strengthen its efforts to protect forest and wildlife, and intensify measures to curb wildlife crimes.
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