Six arrested in Nilgiris for illegal Sambar deer poaching

Wildlife enforcement officials in the Nilgiris have apprehended six suspects in connection with the illegal poaching of Sambar deer, according to forest department sources. The arrests were made following investigations into unlawful hunting activities within the district, which is known for its rich biodiversity and protected forest reserves.

Sambar deer, a large cervid species native to the Indian subcontinent, are protected under Schedule III of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The species faces ongoing threats from habitat loss and poaching for meat and hides, making conservation efforts in regions like the Nilgiris critical to their survival.

The Nilgiris, spanning parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, serves as a crucial wildlife corridor and hosts several endangered species. Forest departments across the region have intensified patrols and intelligence operations to combat poaching networks that target protected fauna.

Official sources indicated that further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of poaching operations and identify potential trafficking networks. The arrested individuals are expected to face charges under relevant wildlife protection statutes. The case highlights persistent challenges faced by authorities in preventing illegal hunting despite stricter enforcement measures.