Jaisalmer: Three poachers were found Wednesday in possession of meat of Chinkara, a Schedule I protected animal on Kolu-Kanod Road under the Gida police station area of Balotra district. Villagers and wildlife enthusiasts chased the suspected poachers for nearly 10 km before catching them.According to forest ranger Ruparam, the accused have been identified as Dhamaram, Junjharam and Prahladram, all residents of Panawada village in Balotra district.The trio allegedly hunted the protected animal near Kolu village in the Baytoo area using a torchlight at night. Their activities were noticed by local villagers and wildlife enthusiasts, who immediately alerted others and rushed to the spot.On seeing the villagers approaching, the accused tried to flee on a motorcycle. However, the villagers chased them in a Bolero for about 10 km and intercepted them on Kanod Road.After apprehending the suspects, the villagers informed the Baytoo forest dept, whose team reached the spot and took the accused into custody.The accused were found in possession of chinkara meat, a cutting tool, torches and a motorcycle allegedly used in the hunt. The forest department has detained all three accused and initiated legal proceedings under the Wildlife (Protection) Act.The chinkara is a Schedule I protected species, and offences involving its hunting attract stringent penalties under the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
