Alleged poacher killed in Kodagu’s reserve forest

MADIKERI: A rift between two poaching groups inside the Mundrote forest range in Kodagu resulted in one being killed in the incident. However, the motive behind the shootout is unclear and is being investigated by Bhagamandala Police and Madikeri Rural police.

George (50), Chandran and Ashoka – residents of Thayyani village in Kerala, were out hunting for a pangolin, deep inside the Mundrote forest range of Kodagu during the evening hours of Tuesday; sources claimed George to be a rich poacher from Kerala. However, the poaching plan turned into a shootout when unknown people – also alleged to be poachers – fired at George and his companions, killing George on the spot. The incident took place around 4.30 pm on Tuesday; however, the incident was reported to police during the wee hours of Wednesday.

“Gunshots were fired at George – on his chest, shoulder and naval area – killing him on the spot. During the investigation, Chandran revealed that gunshots were fired from the opposite direction by unknown people. However, motive behind the incident is unclear and is being investigated,” confirmed Siddaiah, Madikeri Rural Police inspector.

Investigation officer and SI of Bhagamandala, Venkataramana said, “Deceased George’s body has been sent to Pariyaram Medical College. No guns were found at the crime spot. The identities and whereabouts of the culprits are not known yet. Further investigation is required.”