India: The gang of 12 sambar poachers, led by Rafiq Ahmed, are believed to have links with similar cases reported in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, making it one of the largest hi-tech poaching networks uncovered in recent times in the country. Sources said Rafiq also had links with crane hunters from Afghanistan.

The poaching network is symbiotic with hunters providing cover and escape route to fellow hunters in different states. Sources added that the network grew and flourished because of this friendship and the ‘hunger for hunting’ attitude among youngsters, many of whom have with high-paying jobs in Bengaluru, or own plantations while some others are just trigger-happy.

Rafiq, the main accused in the Tanigebailu poaching case, where the group were caught with carcasses of Sambar deer on January 1, has been involved in poaching incidents in Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks, BRT Wildlife Sanctuary and in some parts of Kerala, Mudumalai and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, sources say.

Modus operandi
These poachers had links with other hunting teams in five or six states and provided support in terms of purchasing weapons, location of hunting spots and even helping them escape.  “Rafiq drew both friends and relatives into the poaching network, who, in turn, brought their friends. Poaching seemed like an exercise to strengthen their relationship. If you look at the profile of these poachers, it is clear that they were aware of wildlife laws and knew that they were killing protected species. Each hunter was responsible for drawing the other into the network,” the source said.

Social media interactions
The group was very active on social networking sites, often discussing about hunting of Sambar deer and details pertaining to location of the animal. Their chats on social media also included purchase of weapons and discussions on new hunting areas.

Through the chats, it was found that the group became friends with similar gangs across Karnataka and neighbouring states. Sources added that in the coming days, investigations may reveal how they poached in protected areas in the country with ease.

(Source: The New Indian Express)