Three apprehended in Andhra for possessing tiger nails

Andhra Pradesh forest officials apprehended three people in Nandyal district for allegedly possessing six suspected tiger claws. The wildlife articles were found concealed in a motorcycle during a search in Atmakur. Authorities seized the claws and vehicle and launched further investigation

Atmakur: Three persons have been apprehended for allegedly possessing tiger nails here in Nandyal district, Andhra Pradesh forest officials have said.

Forest officials apprehended Y Thimmaiah (45), Kunchala Mallikarjuna (37) and Karravula Venkateswaralu (35) under relevant provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

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“The Forest Department has detected a wildlife offence involving the possession of six suspected tiger claws (nails) and has apprehended three persons in connection with the case,” an official press release said from Project Tiger Division, Atmakur, late on Monday.

According to the Forest officials, surveillance teams intercepted a person in Atmakur town on August 5 around 10:30 am, based on reliable intelligence.

During a search conducted in the presence of witnesses, a blue plastic cover containing six suspected tiger claws (nails) was found concealed in the petrol-tank cover of a motorbike.

The suspected wildlife articles and the vehicle were seized, said the press release.

Further probe indicated the alleged involvement of three persons, including the person who possessed the nails, which led to the apprehension of the trio.

Statements recorded during the investigation indicated an alleged chain of procurement, possession and attempted delivery of the suspected wildlife articles, the press release added.