Srinagar: The Department of Wildlife Protection, Wetland Division has initiated a series of raids in the Srinagar area against those involved in illegal poaching activities at Wular Lake.
The action followed in response to social media videos showing individuals involved in illegal activities. The videos depicted individuals carrying firearms, suggesting involvement in wildlife hunting, prompting swift action from the authorities.
In a first of its kind, the department on December 10 conducted coordinated raids at multiple locations, aiming to apprehend those involved. During the raids, one accused from Habak area of Srinagar was arrested and a gun was seized from his house, while various decoys and gears used during illegal hunting were seized during the search operation at premises of other accused from Lal bazar area of Srinagar.
This decisive action underscores the Department’s commitment to safeguarding wildlife and addressing illegal activities threatening protected areas.
As per Deputy Conservator wetlands, Altaf Hussain, investigation in the matter has been started and summons have been issued to other accused to present themselves before authorities of wildlife Department.
He said this kind of action shows zero tolerance of the Department against ill intentioned persons who resort to poaching in various wetlands. He stated that the Department of Wildlife Protection will come down heavily on poachers and will deal with them with an iron first.—(JKNS)
