Illegal Hunter Busted: The Tragic Fate of Maharashtra's Mouse Deer

A 25-year-old man has been arrested in Maharashtra's Thane district for allegedly hunting a protected mouse deer. Despite rescue efforts, the animal died from pellet gun wounds. Evidence led to Jagdish Wagh, who had photographs of other hunted animals, prompting further investigation into the illegal act.

Authorities in Maharashtra's Thane district have apprehended a 25-year-old man accused of illegally hunting a mouse deer, a protected species, officials announced.

The forest department discovered the injured mouse deer, also known as chevrotain, on September 23, showing evidence of a pellet gun wound in Ambernath. Despite being transported to a wildlife hospital, the animal died three days later from its injuries.

An autopsy revealed pellet wounds, prompting a case under the Wildlife Protection Act. A thorough investigation led to the suspect, Jagdish Wagh, whose mobile contained incriminating photographs of numerous hunted animals. As of October 19, Wagh remains in custody while further inquiries continue into the crime and potential accomplices.

(With inputs from agencies.)