Who Is Responsible for the Death of 5 Tigers in Bengaluru?

Bengaluru, June 28 (NationPress) The joint efforts of Forest and Police officials have uncovered a shocking incident involving the demise of a tigress and her four cubs in the Male Mahadeshwara Hills forest area, resulting in the arrest of three suspects on Saturday.

According to Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, investigations are underway regarding the apprehended individuals, and they will face legal repercussions.

The suspects have been identified as Konappa, Madaraju, and Nagaraju, all from Koppa village.

This case falls under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the Karnataka Forest Act, 1969, as stated by Minister Khandre.

Reports indicate that the suspects confessed to lacing meat with poison to eliminate the tigers, claiming it was a retaliatory act for the loss of their cow. Three additional individuals are being questioned in connection with the case.

The suspects alleged that the tigress was responsible for the death of their cow, ‘Kenchi’. In a moment of anger, Madaraju confided in Nagaraju, and they, along with others, plotted to avenge the death of their livestock by targeting the tigress and her cubs.

They procured pesticides, entered the forest, and found the carcass of the cow, which they poisoned.

The following day, the tigress and her cubs consumed the tainted meat, leading to their tragic deaths.

Madaraju reportedly expressed satisfaction over the demise of the tigers and even celebrated it.

Authorities revealed that Madaraju fled after public outrage ensued over the deaths but was later apprehended.

Earlier, police had detained Madaraju’s father, Shivanna, who falsely confessed to the crime in an attempt to shield his son. Following the confession of the true perpetrators, authorities have now cleared Shivanna’s name from the investigation, according to sources.

Furthermore, the government has appointed Kumar Pushkar, the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Nodal Officer for the All India Tiger Estimation, as the new head of the investigation team, replacing the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.

The investigative team comprises Chief Forest Conservator T. Hiralal, APCCF Srinivasulu, a representative from the NTCA Malleshappa, Dr. Shashidhar from the Mysuru Zoo, and wildlife expert Sanjay Gubbi.

The unnatural deaths were brought to light on Thursday when the carcasses of the tigress and her cubs were found in the Meenyam forest area of the Hoogyam range within the sanctuary.

Sources indicate that the tigress had previously killed the cow and dragged it into the forest. After partially consuming the meat, she and her cubs returned and ultimately succumbed after eating the poisoned remains.