Anti-poaching operation in Bengaluru uncovers 74 kg of illegally hunted deer, wild boar meat

In a major crackdown on wildlife poaching, forest officials in Bengaluru intercepted an illegal operation near Bannerghatta Road, resulting in the arrest of one individual and the seizure of 74 kilograms of wild animal meat. Acting on intelligence inputs about illicit hunting activities in the Bannerghatta and Kolar forest regions, a joint team of forest personnel and a vigilance unit launched a targeted operation.

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The team intercepted a vehicle near the Bannerghatta-NICE Road junction, detaining a 31-year-old suspect identified as Pratap. A search of the vehicle revealed carcasses of four spotted deer and one wild boar. Alongside the meat, authorities also confiscated two cars, a motorcycle, two firearms, and ten live cartridges.

Further investigation led officials to a shed in CK Palya, where additional illegal meat was discovered. The total quantity of seized meat, traced back to nine deer and one wild boar, amounted to 74 kg. The shed is linked to a man named Bhimappa, and two other individuals—Balaraju and Ramesh—are suspected to be involved. All three remain at large.

The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act. Authorities are continuing their search for the absconding suspects and further evidence of poaching activity. The swift and coordinated action underscores the Forest Department’s commitment to curbing wildlife crimes in the region.