According to authorities, information was received that a group of people had entered the Berkhedi beat area of Tehra-Tehri in two vehicles. Acting on the tip-off, forest personnel set up a blockade along the forest trails, lying in wait for the suspects’ return.

Around 3 a.m., as the vehicles exited the forest, the team intercepted them and took three men into custody.

During the search, officials recovered approximately 10 kilograms of black deer meat, the animal’s hide, teak wood, a 22-bore rifle, 15 live cartridges, and three empty shells. Both vehicles used by the poachers were also confiscated.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Wasim Khan (resident of Mandi Bamora), Omkar Adivasi (Tehra-Tehri), and Raju Adivasi (Semramehda). Rahatgarh Forest Range Officer Manish Singh Thakur confirmed that the seized meat belonged to a female black deer.

A case has been registered against the accused under the Wildlife Protection Act and other relevant sections, and further investigation is underway.

The forest department emphasized that such actions aim to protect endangered species and curb illegal hunting and timber smuggling in the region.

This crackdown comes amid growing concerns over poaching and illicit trade of forest resources in Sagar, highlighting the forest department’s proactive measures to safeguard wildlife.