A joint operation by Baratang Police and the Forest Department has led to the seizure of a hunted deer and the arrest of a man accused of poaching, underscoring the island administration’s stance of zero tolerance towards wildlife crimes. The incident occurred on August 24 at Bamboonallah (Kanchangarh), under the jurisdiction of Police Station Baratang in North & Middle Andaman.
According to the official release, police had received reliable intelligence about illegal wildlife trade activities in the area. The information was immediately shared with the Forest Department, and a joint team was constituted to carry out the raid. The team, led by Sub-Inspector Subramani, the Station House Officer of Baratang Police Station, along with several constables and forest officials, moved towards Kanchangarh.
While conducting surveillance, the raiding team spotted a man emerging from the jungle towards the main road with a plastic gunny bag slung over his shoulder. His movements appeared suspicious, prompting the officials to intercept him. On being questioned, the man identified himself as 31-year-old Amrith Kumar Tirkey, a resident of Kanchangarh.
During interrogation, Tirkey admitted that he had illegally hunted a deer in the forest and was carrying it with the intention of selling it for monetary gain. Upon inspection of the gunny bag, officials recovered the carcass of a deer weighing approximately 28 kilograms.
The seized deer was immediately taken into custody under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, in the presence of Forest Department officers. The accused, along with the seized items, was handed over to the Forest Department for further legal proceedings. Authorities said the case highlights the importance of coordinated enforcement to safeguard the biodiversity of the islands.
The North & Middle Andaman District Police have reiterated their commitment to act in close coordination with the Forest Department to curb poaching and illegal wildlife trade. Officials stated that such operations demonstrate the seriousness of law enforcement agencies in protecting fragile ecosystems from exploitation.
Wildlife conservationists have long stressed that the Andaman Islands, home to unique and often endangered species, are under increasing threat from hunting and illegal trade. The forests of Baratang, known for their biodiversity, are particularly vulnerable. This case, they say, reflects both the challenges and the urgency of enforcing wildlife protection laws in remote regions.
Police have also appealed to the general public to cooperate in the fight against poaching by sharing any credible information about such activities. Citizens have been encouraged to report crimes by contacting their nearest police station or using emergency helplines 100, 112 and 03192-273344. Authorities assured that the identity of informers will be kept confidential and that credible tip-offs will be suitably rewarded.
The joint raid has been described as a success, but officials acknowledged that sustained efforts are required to combat the menace of poaching. The incident adds to a series of operations aimed at preserving the ecological balance of the islands and preventing the loss of wildlife to illegal hunting.
With the arrest of Tirkey and the recovery of the deer, the Baratang operation has once again placed wildlife crimes in the spotlight, reminding residents and visitors alike that the Andaman Islands’ biodiversity is not just a natural heritage but a responsibility shared by all.
