Bhatkal: Acting on suspicion of illegal hunting, officials of the Forest Department raided a house in the Hurulisal area of Bhatkal and seized 21 kg of meat, deer antlers, and two air guns.

According to officials, the accused, identified as Jaffer Barmavar, allegedly hunted a wild animal in the forest, processed the meat near his residence, and dumped the remaining carcass parts into an abandoned well adjacent to the house. During the operation, officials retrieved the remains from the well for examination.

Sources said that when officials initially reached the house, family members refused to open the door. After waiting for nearly six hours, the team gained entry and conducted a search. During the inspection, 21 kg of meat stored in a refrigerator was recovered.

Range Forest Officer (RFO) Vishwanath stated that, prima facie, the meat is suspected to be that of a wild boar. Samples have been sent to a forensic laboratory for scientific analysis, and confirmation will be available once the report is received.

The accused is currently absconding, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend him.

The operation was conducted with the participation of CPI Divakar P.M. of the Town Police Station, along with Forest Department personnel.