Raipur, Sep 4 — A team of the Chhattisgarh forest department has arrested two accused for stealing the nails of a dead bear in the Marwahi forest circle area.
The department’s team recovered four nails stolen from a dead bear in the Marwahi forest range of Gaurela-Pedra-Marwahi district. The department has intensified efforts to protect wildlife and curb poaching across the state.
A recent incident was reported on September 3, when the forest department received information about the death of a bear in Marwahi forest circle, a team rushed to the spot without delay. During inspection, officials discovered that four nails from the bear’s right hind paw were missing. Treating the matter with utmost seriousness, the department launched an intensive search and investigation with the assistance of a dog squad team.
The operation led to the arrest of two accused — Sudarshan Yadav, 54, and Suraj Sahis, 20, both residents of Baraur village. Four nails belonging to the dead bear were recovered from their possession and duly confiscated. Legal action has been initiated against the duo under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and they are being produced before the court.
After completing the search and necessary legal formalities, a post-mortem examination of the dead bear was conducted in the presence of a team of veterinarians. The veterinarians initially attributed the cause of death to acute lung infection.
Following the post-mortem, the carcass was cremated as per protocol.
Divisional Forest Officer, Marwahi, Kumar Nishant, along with other Forest Department officials and staff, remained present throughout the proceedings.
The Forest Department has appealed to the public not to tamper with the carcass or body parts of any dead wildlife and to immediately inform the nearest Forest Department office upon discovering such remains.
Citizens have also been urged to promptly report any instances of forest crime, poaching or suspicious wildlife-related activities. Emphasising that wildlife protection is a collective responsibility, the department said active participation of local communities will further strengthen conservation efforts in the state.