3 arrested in Karnataka after tigress, 4 cubs found dead in wildlife sanctuary

30-Jun-2025

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Three people were arrested in Karnataka in connection with the death of a tigress and her four cubs in the Male Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, officials said on Jun 28. The Forest Department has confirmed the arrests of Konappa, Madaraj, and Nagaraj — all residents of Kopp village — on charges of poisoning.

The incident came to light near Meenyan in the Gajanur beat of the Hoogyam range, where the carcasses of the tigress and her cubs were discovered alongside a dead cow. Investigations revealed that pesticide had been applied to the cow's carcass, which the big cats are believed to have consumed. 

The incident is being treated as a grave wildlife crime.

Officials have assured that all those found guilty will face strict legal action.