Hunting gang arrested for killing and selling deer meat in Pathanamthitta

Four members of a hunting gang, who allegedly shot a sambar deer in a forest area and sold its meat at different locations, have been arrested by Forest department officials.The accused have been identified as Sunil Kumar C.G., Anil Kumar C.G., both from Cheradi in Kottayam; Abhilal Madhu of Palathottathil in Idukki; and Prashanth of Aruvappulam in Konni.Forest officials also seized the vehicle used by the gang and weapons including a double-barrelled gun.According to the Forest department, the gang shot the sambar deer at Avolil Kuzhi near Athumpumkulam last Sunday and subsequently sold its meat at different locations. Forest officials later found the animal’s head and internal organs abandoned at Avolil Kuzhi.A case was registered and an investigation launched. Acting on a tip-off, a team of forest officials apprehended them at Payyanamon on Monday as they were allegedly preparing for another hunt and arrested them.Officials said Prashanth had a licence to shoot wild boars, which the gang allegedly used as a cover to hunt other wildlife.The accused will be produced before a court. Published - September 01, 2026 07:39 pm IST