More lion skeletons found in Gir

AHMEDABAD: The Gir Wildlife Sanctuary seems all set to see the last of the endangered lions. In yet another shocking discovery on Friday, skeletal remains of three more lions were discovered from Popatiya hamlet in the Babhariya range. The nails of the majestic beasts are once again missing.

Forest officials confirm that this to be another case of sinister poaching and admit that the incident is extremely serious. Earlier this month, three decomposed carcasses were found, with their claws and bones ripped, near the Jamwada-Una highway, close to the casualty site discovered on Friday.  Shocked by the incident, forest department had admitted that a gang of poachers is operating for first time in the sanctuary. Investigations have been handed over to the CID.

The incident occurred even as the CID was present in the area and security and infrastructure had been beefed up. “This incident clearly points the needle of suspicion towards a well-organised local gang with probable connections to international markets. Only locals can have access to this area after the cordoning by CID,” an informed source said.

The remains, believed to be the skull and limbs of two adult male lions and one sub-adult, were reportedly discovered by an investigating team. Division Forest Officer BL Sharma conceded that six lion deaths have resulted due to poaching during the last 26 days.