Five bird poachers fined ₹25,000 each
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, December 10 2022:
Five poachers who were apprehended for killing migratory birds at Ikop Pat in Thoubal district have been fined Rs 25,000 each under the provisions of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 .
Speaking to media persons in this regard on Friday, divisional forest officer (DFO), Thoubal N Lokendro Singh informed that for the first time in Manipur, five poachers who had killed two migratory birds at Ikop Pat in Thoubal district on October 4 were slapped monetary penalty of Rs 25,000 each.
He recalled that on receiving, in formation from Wildlife Bio-diversity Conservation Committee president Rabi Takhellambam, the DFO officials swung into action and during frisking of the accused people two dead birds were found.
A car and hunting weapons were also confiscated from them and declared as government properties.
The DFO further informed that of late, Thoubal district forest officials and other activists have been recovering bird nets from Ikop Pat.
However, this is for the first time that bird poachers, guns and a car have been taken into custody with the dead birds.
Despite best efforts of the government and wildlife enthusiasts many continue to poach and trap the migratory birds, he said, adding that the Department will continue its drive against bird poachers.
Stating that many migratory bird species visit Manipur every winter, he appealed to people not to harm the visiting winged friends.