Cracking Down on Tiger Poaching: Maharashtra's New Frontline

Maharashtra forest department collaborates with central probe agencies to combat tiger poaching linked to Shillong. The move follows incidents of feline body parts being trafficked to Myanmar. A special investigation team has arrested several suspects, and plans to enhance surveillance, utilize technology, and engage local communities are underway.

The Maharashtra forest department has intensified efforts against tiger poaching, turning to central agencies to assist after uncovering links to Shillong in a recent Chandrapur case, an official disclosed.

Reports indicate that the tiger bodies are sometimes smuggled to Myanmar and other nations. In Rajura forest last month, authorities found a deceased tiger and weaponry deemed used for poaching. A special team investigating has arrested individuals, notably from Shillong, with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau urging increased surveillance in reserves.

Forest Minister Ganesh Naik has advocated for in-depth interrogation of suspects and pledged heightened electronic monitoring of forests. Cross-agency collaboration and community involvement are highlighted as crucial, with modern technologies playing a significant role in dismantling poaching networks.