Three held for killing leopard, attempting to sell its nails in Mancherial district
HYDERABAD: Forest officials investigating the seizure of wildlife parts at Ootla village in Dandepalli mandal confirmed that the accused had poached a leopard and removed its nails.
Officials said three persons arrested for allegedly trying to trade 13 leopard nails admitted to killing the animal. They used an iron-wire snare made from two-wheeler clutch wires.
Forest team confirms leopard killing after probe
Forest investigators conducted a detailed probe till late Saturday night. A special team, along with a veterinary doctor, confirmed that the accused had killed a leopard.
Officials said the animal got trapped in a snare on the outskirts of Ootla village a few weeks ago. The accused later burned the carcass to destroy evidence. They then removed the nails.
Sniffer dog used during search operation
Forest officials deployed a sniffer dog named Cheetah during the search operation. Acting on a tip-off, teams sealed Ootla village from four directions. They then carried out extensive searches.
On Saturday, officials arrested three persons. They identified them as Modte Venkatesh and Modte Srinivas from Ootla village, and Vanaparthi Srikanth from Mamidipalli village. The trio allegedly tried to trade wildlife parts.
Accused linked to teak timber smuggling
Investigators said the accused were also involved in teak timber smuggling. Authorities had earlier booked them in cases related to felling teak trees.
Forest officials said the investigation is still ongoing. They suspect that more people may have helped in the leopard poaching.
Officials expect to identify other suspects after completing the probe within one or two weeks.
