Tribal Man Arrested with Country-Made Explosives in Ranipet

Quick Summary

• A 45-year-old tribal man, B. Venkatesh from the Irular community, was arrested in Ranipet for possessing over 50 country-made explosives intended to hunt wild animals.
• Items confiscated included 55 explosives, a two-wheeler, nets, torchlights, and batteries.
• The arrest occurred during a routine patrol by a six-member forest team at Walajah toll gate on the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway (NH 48) when Venkatesh’s suspicious behaviour drew attention.
• He attempted to escape but was apprehended by forest officials.
• Officials suspect regular poaching activity as Venkatesh displayed knowledge of local terrain and wildlife and sourced raw materials illegally from stone-quarry operators to make explosives.
• A case has been filed under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Venkatesh is being held at Central Prison in Vellore with further investigation underway.

Indian Opinion Analysis

This case highlights crucial issues regarding wildlife poaching and illegal activities in India’s forests. The arrest demonstrates proactive efforts by Forest Department teams on ground patrols to curb such practices violating laws under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, which is designed to conserve biodiversity. However, it is vital for authorities to address systemic factors contributing to such incidents-like poverty among rural tribal communities-that often drive individuals towards illegal hunting as a livelihood strategy.

the finding that materials were sourced illegally paints a larger picture of interconnected challenges involving local industries (e.g., stone quarries) operating outside regulations. It suggests that combating poaching requires not only enforcement against individuals but stricter supervision across supply chains involved in illegal activities supporting such acts.

While measures like this arrest serve as deterrents, strengthening community-based conservation programs alongside sustainable economic alternatives would be essential steps toward resolving root causes rather than treating symptoms alone.Read more: Link