Six Men Arrested for Poaching Spotted Deer to Prepare Biryani in Salem
In a shocking incident of wildlife crime, forest department officers in Salem district have arrested six individuals on serious charges of poaching a spotted deer using an unlicensed firearm. The arrests followed a swift operation triggered by a critical tip-off received by authorities on Monday evening.
Tip-Off Leads to Immediate Action
The forest department was alerted to information indicating that a spotted deer had been illegally hunted, and its meat was being utilized to cook biryani at a residence belonging to one Kumaresan in the Pazhayur area. Acting promptly on this intelligence, officers rushed to the suspected location to investigate the matter further.
Chase and Capture with Local Assistance
Upon the arrival of the forest officers, the suspects attempted to flee the scene in a bid to evade capture. However, the officers pursued them diligently and, with the invaluable support of local residents, managed to apprehend all six men from the nearby area of Chellapillaikuttai. South forest range officer P Durai Murugan confirmed the details of the chase and arrest, highlighting the collaborative effort involved.
Evidence Seized and Legal Proceedings Initiated
During the subsequent search of Kumaresan's house, authorities confiscated significant evidence, including the leftover meat of the poached spotted deer and the unlicensed gun allegedly used in the illegal hunting activity. A formal case has been registered against the arrested individuals, who have since been remanded to judicial custody as the legal process unfolds.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in combating wildlife poaching and the critical role of community vigilance in protecting endangered species. The forest department's rapid response demonstrates their commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws in the region.



