Call to strengthen border checkposts in the Nilgiris to prevent poaching

The Gudalur forest division has stepped up vigil, particularly in areas bordering the Tamil Nadu – Kerala border, following the arrest of two poachers in Pandalur on Friday.

However, conservationists from the Nilgiris said that more needs to be done by both, the district administration and the judiciary, to support the Forest Department to clampdown on wildlife crimes in the region.

The Gudalur forest division stated that a “major wildlife offence was foiled by the Forest Department after a tip-off led to the interception of two individuals suspected of planning illegal hunting activities.”

The Forest Department, which had increased its patrolling and intensified checking at border checkposts, intercepted a car on February 27, in which two men from Kerala were found to be in possession of sharp weapons and ammunition, which were to be used to hunt Sambar deer and gaur.

“Forest officials also seized their mobile phones, recovering vital evidence linking the suspects to a larger network involved in the illegal hunting of wild mammals for meat. The investigation further led to the identification of additional individuals connected to the crime,” the department said.

The Nilgiris forest division as well as Nilambur were alerted about the arrest of the men, who were suspected to have poached wild animals in these areas as well.

“The Forest Department has reiterated its commitment to preserving the region’s wildlife and preventing illegal hunting. Local authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to poaching and wildlife crimes to help safeguard the natural habitat of endangered species,” the statement added.

However, conservationists said the arrest of the two men highlighted increased instances of poaching gangs from Kerala operating within the Nilgiris.

N. Sadiq Ali, Founder of the Wildlife and Nature Conservation Trust, said there was a huge demand for game meat in Kerala and that poachers were targeting wildlife in the “less-patrolled” areas of the Nilgiris.

All border checkposts should be strengthened with full CCTV coverage and records being made of all vehicles entering and exiting through them. The judiciary, too, should assist the Forest Department by allowing thorough investigations of the suspects, he said.

“This could help the Forest Department find weapons that are hidden within the district to aid the poachers,” he said.