The Divisional Forest Officer lansdowne, Nitish Mani Tripathi imposed a fine of Rs3 lakh on five persons of Kotdwar for possessing Sambar flesh under Section 54 of Wild Protection Act. Notably, Sambar is one of the scheduled animals, that enjoy protection.  The DFO office informed that five accused have been asked to deposit the fine amount within a certain time period as per their appeal.

However, they would be arrested if they do not comply. Previously, Monday had been fixed as the last day for depositing the fine. later, taking note of the appeal made by the three accused, the last date was extended by three days. The other two have already paid Rs60,000 each, it is learnt. On Friday, forest employees recovered the flesh of Sambar from three youths- Gaurav, Kamal and Govind at Saneh Forest Chowki. They are residents of Kumbhichor, Kotdwar.

Another accused Suresh, resident of Kotdidangh, fled and was later arrested.  This aside, the forest team recovered head and pelt of Sambar from one Nan Singh,  resident of village Bagnala. DFO NM Tripathi said the investigation revealed that the Sambar had been killed by a dog. However, as the parts of the beast’s body were recovered from the accused the penalty was imposed.

As two of them deposited their share of Rs60,000, three appealed for extension. It was granted, the DFO said. He further said no case of the illegal hunting has come to the department’s notice.  However, such hunting whenever it occurs would be dealt with stern action according to the laws, he warned.