Six elephant poachers arrested

Bangalore, January 16, 2007. Six elephant poachers, including one from
neighbouring Tamil Nadu, have been nabbed near Doddanne in
Karnataka.
In a joint operation carried out by the Deputy Conservators of
Forests, Kollegal division and Cauvery WL division in Kanakapura,
Belluli Madaiah, Suntari Madaiah and Karna from Ramegowdanahalli,
Kumara of Billigundlu in Tamil Nadu, Shivanna and Butta of
Bidarahalli were nabbed. However, another accused Kencha was
absconding, an official release here said today.
The arrested were remanded in judicial custody on January 14, the
release added.
Three tuskers were poached around Ponnachi in December last and
one tusker near Doddanne in March 2005.
Efforts were being made to strengthen the protection force to
avoid future poaching in these areas, the Principal Chief
Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Bangalore, said.