Violent encounter in Kaveri sanctuary leaves three dead, government orders investigation

The Kaveri Wildlife Sanctuary’s Shagya forest tract in Karnataka became the scene of a deadly confrontation on Saturday when forest department staff met three illegal hunters operating without licences. The poachers—Anthony Swamy, John Peter and Saveriyappan—were found carrying four bags filled with deer meat.

Armed with two unregistered firearms, the hunters resisted arrest, leading to an exchange of fire with department personnel Shekharappa, Rohit and Shivraj. The skirmish ended with the hunters succumbing to their injuries; the fourth participant, Mahim Das, fled before police could detain him.

The aftermath saw heightened tension in nearby villages. Residents, grieving the loss of the hunters, staged protests that escalated into vandalism of forest‑department assets and an assault on the sub‑range officer’s office.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar directed the district magistrate to undertake a comprehensive inquiry. He stated that the investigation would determine the exact cause of death, assess any misconduct, and guide decisions on possible compensation for the bereaved families.