Three Apprehended in Odugathur Reserve Forest Following Armed Poaching Attempt
Forest officials detailed the arrest of three individuals using country-made explosives and firearms near Vellore. The suspects, residents of Alleri tribal village, reportedly poached wildlife to supplement their primary incomes.
Enforcement Action in Odugathur Reserve Forest
Authorities took three men into custody on Wednesday following an anti-poaching operation in the Odugathur Reserve Forest (RF), located on the periphery of Vellore Corporation. The forest department identified those detained as S. Gopi (37), V. Settu (42), and G. Ranjith (27). All three are inhabitants of the Alleri tribal village situated in the Jawadhu Hills.
Tactics and Seized Weaponry
The encounter occurred at Ozur village during a standard patrol by forest personnel. Upon spotting a department jeep, the suspects attempted to flee the scene but were intercepted by the forest team. Investigations confirmed the presence of a bag of explosives and led to the additional seizure of three country-made guns. Officials noted the following details regarding the suspects' operations:
- The group manufactured or acquired explosives through contacts in Kerala.
- Poaching activities served as a secondary revenue stream for the men, who worked as drivers and masons.
- The forest department maintains that the trio intended to target wildlife within the RF boundaries.
Legal Proceedings and Custody
Following the apprehension, the Ariyur police officially registered a case against the individuals. The suspects are currently detained at the Central Prison in Vellore. While the immediate threat has been neutralized, a broader investigation continues into the procurement network for the seized explosives. The arrests were reported on July 29, 2026.
Source: The Hindu — National