Tiger killing in MM hills: Accused in Forest dept custody; spot inquest conducted

Hanur, Chamarajanagar: The four accused in connection with poisoning of a tiger at Pachedoddi village, Hanur buffer range, have been handed over to the Forest department officials for inquiry.

Police arrested four people, Pachemallu, Ganesh, Govindegowda and Sampu on Sunday. They were taken to Kollegal sub-division hospital for medical examination and produced before JMFC Court and handed over to judicial custody.

The Forest department sought permission from the Court on Monday and took them into their custody for inquiry. They were taken to the scene of crime for inquest. Search is on to nab four more involved in the tiger death.

Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre stated that the officials have been instructed to submit charge sheets in connection with the case and ensure strict punishment to the guilty.

He has warned of disciplinary action against the Forest department personnel, if they are found to be negligent or dereliction of duty in preventing the tiger killing. An investigation is underway, led by PCCF and action will be taken as soon as the report is submitted, he stated.

The officials have been instructed to hold meetings with the people living in fringes of the forest and also to take steps to support the economic development of the people living there and encourage them to coexist with wildlife, the Minister said.