Assam: The Assam Police Special Task Force (STF) has successfully arrested three individuals involved in illegal hunting activities in Baikhungaon village, Chirang district, after a tip-off regarding wild civet and bird poaching.
The illegal activities came to light when one of the accused, Dipankar Basumatary, shared images of the hunting on his WhatsApp status on December 12 and 25, 2024.
Upon receiving the information, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Kajalgaon Police Station led a swift search operation, which resulted in the arrest of Dipankar Basumatary, a resident of Baikhungaon.
During interrogation, Dipankar admitted to his involvement in the hunting and confirmed the details in the images. He also revealed that two other villagers—Bilipang Basumatary and Swmdwm Basumatary—were part of the illegal activities.
Following Dipankar’s confession, the Kajalgaon police arrested Bilipang and Swmdwm. The two suspects disclosed that they had hidden the weapons used in the poaching at Swmdwm’s residence. A search at the location resulted in the recovery of an air gun and ammunition.
A case has been registered under Kajalgaon PS Case No. 168/2024, with charges under:
- Sections 61(2)(a) and 111(3) of the Biological Diversity Act
- Section 51(1) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- Section 11(1)(l) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
The police have assured that necessary legal proceedings are underway. This action highlights the commitment of the Kajalgaon Police to enforce wildlife protection laws and combat illegal hunting in the region.
Accused Persons:
- Dipankar Basumatary, son of Khagen Basumatary, resident of Baikhungaon, PS-Kajalgaon, Chirang.
- Swmdwm Basumatary, son of Maniram Basumatary, resident of Baikhungaon, PS-Kajalgaon, Chirang.
- Bilipang Basumatary, son of Manoj Basumatary, resident of Baikhungaon, PS-Kajalgaon, Chirang.
This operation underscores the importance of community vigilance and the role of the police in safeguarding wildlife in Assam.
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