The Papikonda National Park authorities have busted a major camp set up by a group of poachers reportedly to hunt the wildlife.
Last week, S. Kannapu Reddy, S. Venkata Reddy, K. Channapu Reddy, Lachi Reddy and K. Bucchi Reddy gained entry into the core area of the part by walking 12 km from the village outside the park.
On a tip off, the park authorities led by Forest Ranger Srinivas Reddy followed the group, tracing their movements within the core area under the V.R. Puram Range.
Caught on camera
“The poachers belong to the area that falls outside the national park. Their presence in the park was confirmed with the help of camera traps and C.C. camera surveillance system,” Mr. Srinivas Reddy told The Hindu over phone.
“The poachers had taken eight trained dogs, nets, sharp weapons and nets to hunt the wildlife. Cases were registered under Section 9 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 and the accused were produced before a local court on Tuesday,” he said. The camp had huge stocks of essential commodities, showing that the poachers had planned a long stay. The group reportedly ventured into the park a few days ago but did not meet with success.
The preparedness of the group shows that it had plans other than collection of minor forest produce. However, the tribal people within the park are entitled to do so for their livelihood, without posing any threat to the wildlife, the official said.