Home / Environment / Jaw Traps Seized in Telangana; Poaching Threat Looms
Jaw Traps Seized in Telangana; Poaching Threat Looms
3 Apr
Summary
- Forest department confiscated jaw traps used to ensnare apex predators.
- Two individuals were arrested during a decoy operation.
- The operation uncovered illegal trapping devices on April 2, 2026.
In a significant operation on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Telangana Forest Department confiscated a substantial cache of illegal wildlife poaching devices, notably jaw traps, in Karimnagar district. These traps are notoriously used to ensnare apex predators such as tigers and leopards, posing a severe threat to their survival in the northern districts of the state.
The operation, which involved a decoy approach, led to the arrest of two individuals, including a man identified as Narsimhulu, who was reportedly manufacturing and selling these illegal devices. Mobile phone analysis of the arrested individuals reportedly revealed video clips related to wildlife poaching activities.
The confiscation of over 10 jaw traps and other trapping mechanisms occurred despite some local opposition. The incident brings to light the continued challenges faced in curbing wildlife poaching, particularly with tigers known to traverse forest and non-forest areas in districts like Peddapalli and Kamareddy, and past disappearances from Kawal Tiger Reserve.
Forest officials, along with police support, carried out the raid in Rekurthy village, Kothapalli mandal, following an intelligence lead and mobile phone tracking. The seized items are deemed illegal under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, emphasizing the seriousness of the enforcement action.
