Now Reading: Chhattisgarh forest dept seeks CBI probe into tiger poaching
-
01
Chhattisgarh forest dept seeks CBI probe into tiger poaching
Chhattisgarh's forest department has recommended a CBI investigation into a tiger poaching case, citing suspected interstate links and a wider wildlife-trafficking network. A letter dated July 27, seen by Hindustan Times, said…
Chhattisgarh's forest department has recommended a CBI investigation into a tiger poaching case, citing suspected interstate links and a wider wildlife-trafficking network. A letter dated July 27, seen by Hindustan Times, said two of the nine arrested accused are associated with the intelligence wing of Maharashtra Police in Gadchiroli.
The probe began after three tiger skins were seized and nine people were arrested along the Chhattisgarh-Maharashtra border. On June 29, two tiger skins, 13 whiskers, and a Maharashtra-registered motorcycle were recovered from Biyeri Gedam, who identified himself as a constable with Maharashtra Police's Special Branch, and Baburao Madavi, a police informer. A third skin was recovered on July 5 along the Indravati River, and seven more accused were arrested.
The forest department letter said the alleged links of key accused with another state's police intelligence apparatus increased the case's sensitivity. It cited the interstate border location, national security, and wildlife conservation as reasons for a CBI probe. Maharashtra Police suspended Gedam, a 2021 President's Police Medal for Gallantry recipient, and Madavi. IG Sandip Patil called Gedam's involvement deeply concerning and said proceedings to dismiss them from service have been initiated.
Indian Opinion Analysis
This case highlights the challenge of tracking wildlife crime across state jurisdictions, where local police and forest departments may lack the resources or will to pursue interstate networks. The CBI, with its mandate to investigate cases with inter-state or international ramifications, is better placed to uncover whether the syndicate extends to other tiger reserves or international buyers. The involvement of a police constable, even if acting alone, raises questions about the use of official cover for illegal activities. The next key date will be the state home department's response to the forest department's request, and whether the CBI agrees to take up the investigation.
Source: hindustantimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
