Crackdown on wildlife poaching, Pune forest dept seizes weapons, ammo and meat

“The operation led to the arrest of Sukhmit Harmit Singh Bhutaliya (26), resident of Tikona. Among the items seized were around 52 kilograms of suspected wild animal meat, two firearms, live and used cartridges, and various tools and equipment used for hunting and skinning animals. A forest offence has been registered under Sections 9 and 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the accused will be produced before court following due legal procedure.” said a press statement issued by Deputy Conservator of Forest for Pune Tushar Chavan.

“The entire operation was conducted with utmost confidentiality and precision. A sample of the seized meat has been sent to the Wildlife Research Centre, Gorewada, Nagpur for forensic examination and species identification. The firearms and cartridges will be further investigated in coordination with police authorities to verify legal ownership and licenses.” the release stated. An officer said that the meat, which they seized in frozen form, possibly includes meat of both small and large wild animals.

This operation was executed under the guidance of Chavan and was led by Assistant Conservator of Forests Mangesh Tate. The core field team included Prakash Shinde (Range Forest Officer of Vadgaon, Seema Palodkar Forester of Devle, Ganesh Mhetre Forester of Khandala) among others. “The Forest Department appeals to the public to report any suspicious activity related to illegal hunting or wildlife trade to the nearest forest office or helpline. Protecting wildlife and forests is a shared responsibility.” the release stated.