WildlifeCrime – Seven Booked After Tiger Killed in Andhra Pradesh Reserve Forest
WildlifeCrime – Authorities have registered a criminal case against seven individuals for allegedly killing a tiger inside a protected forest area and attempting to sell its claws. The action comes as officials also continue a separate high-level investigation into recent suspicious tiger deaths in another section of the reserve.
Seven Accused Face Wildlife Crime Charges
NSTR-Giddaluru Deputy Director Nisha Kumari said on Tuesday that seven people have been booked in connection with the illegal hunting of a tiger. According to the forest department, five of the accused allegedly entered the reserve forest nearly three weeks ago, where they are suspected of shooting the animal using a country-made firearm. Investigators said the tiger’s limbs were later cut off with an axe, while two additional individuals are believed to have assisted in the crime.
Officials stated that the accused were allegedly planning to sell the tiger’s claws, leading to further charges under wildlife protection laws. During questioning, the suspects reportedly admitted to their involvement. Authorities have also initiated forensic examinations to gather scientific evidence and strengthen the investigation before further legal proceedings.
Forensic Examination Underway
Forest officials said forensic experts are examining material collected from the crime scene and other evidence linked to the case. The scientific analysis is expected to help establish the sequence of events and confirm details surrounding the killing of the protected animal.
The department has not disclosed additional information about the recovered evidence or the exact location where the tiger was found, as the investigation remains active. Officials indicated that further legal action will depend on the outcome of the forensic reports and other supporting evidence.
High-Level Committee Reviews Tiger Deaths
In a separate development, a high-level committee has begun examining reports of suspicious tiger deaths in the Birlooti forest area, located within the Atmakur division of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR).
The committee is headed by retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer P. Mallikarjuna Rao. Members visited the forest on Tuesday to assess the situation and gather information from officials responsible for wildlife management in the region.
Two-Day Inspection Across Reserve Areas
The committee has scheduled a two-day inspection covering different sections of the reserve forest. During the visit, members are expected to review field records, inspect locations connected with recent tiger deaths, and interact with forest personnel involved in monitoring wildlife.
Officials said the purpose of the inspection is to determine whether the deaths occurred due to natural causes, human interference, or any other factors requiring immediate attention. After completing the field assessment, the committee will prepare a detailed report and submit its findings to the state government for further consideration.
The latest developments highlight the continued focus on protecting endangered wildlife and strengthening action against illegal hunting activities in protected forest areas. Authorities have reiterated that investigations into both the poaching case and the suspicious tiger deaths will continue until all facts are verified through scientific evidence and field assessments.