Chinkara hunting case: 2 more held

According to police, Biramane is the brother of Atram8217;s accomplice Mahesh Biramane, and Wadkar was the guard at his Pachgani farmhouse. Sources said Atram8217;s guard has admitted before the investigating authorities that he had burnt 8220;something8221; inside the farmhouse, following orders from his employer.

Forest officials had seized traces of animal hair and pieces of burnt animal skin wrapped in a plastic bag from Atram8217;s farmhouse. Investigations had revealed that the body parts belonged to an animal belonging to the antelope family8212; Chinkara is one such species.

The samples of blood and hair recovered from the hunting spot and the ones seized from Atram8217;s farmhouse have been sent for forensic and ballistic tests to Pune and Mumbai. Firearms seized from the suspects8217; house, including that of Atram8217;s, were also sent to the lab.

Considering the serious nature of the case, it is now being speculated that the officials have now no option but to arrest the tainted minister. 8220;He has admitted that he was near the Chinkara hunting spot on the night of July 14,8221; a police official said.