
Man and son from Mumbai held for attempting to hunt wildlife in Raigad forest, two fire arms seized
A father and son from Mumbai were arrested for attempting to hunt wild animals in the forest near Takka village in Raigad district. The Murud police stated that Crescent Lucus DeMello and his son Graffil were apprehended on Saturday night after a patrolling team stopped their SUV at around 8.30 pm. Police said they recovered two rifles, 104 live cartridges, and animal meat-cutting tools from the vehicle. An FIR was registered under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which prohibits hunting wild animals and carries penalties of up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. Police quoted their findings: "When the vehicle was checked, we found another rifle, 104 live cartridges and animal meat-cutting tools." A Raigad forest official stated that wild boar hunting in the area is strictly illegal, as wild boars are protected under the law. The forest ecosystem near Takka village falls within and adjacent to the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, where trapping and poaching carry severe criminal penalties. The total value of the seized items, including the SUV, is Rs 5.3 lakh. The investigation is ongoing.






