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Crime
Madhya Pradesh wildlife officials flag gun culture in Chambal amid cheetah shooting probe
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 30 Oct 2026, 05:44 AM
👁 1
Madhya Pradesh wildlife officials said the prevalence of firearms in the Chambal region has become a key focus in the ongoing investigation of a cheetah shooting, and the issue has been raised with senior police.
Madhya Pradesh’s forest department has drawn attention to the growing gun culture in the Chambal belt as investigators probe a recent cheetah shooting. The official, speaking to The Hindu, described the prevalence of firearms as a "crucial segment" of the case, indicating that it could shed light on how the animal was targeted.
The matter has been escalated to senior police officers, who are now examining links between illegal hunting practices and the availability of weapons in the region. Wildlife officials emphasized that unchecked firearm use threatens not only cheetahs but also other vulnerable species that inhabit the riverine forests of Chambal.
Authorities are continuing to gather forensic evidence from the shooting site while coordinating with law‑enforcement agencies to curb illicit gun possession. The probe remains open as officials seek to identify the individuals responsible and prevent further wildlife crimes in the area.
The matter has been escalated to senior police officers, who are now examining links between illegal hunting practices and the availability of weapons in the region. Wildlife officials emphasized that unchecked firearm use threatens not only cheetahs but also other vulnerable species that inhabit the riverine forests of Chambal.
Authorities are continuing to gather forensic evidence from the shooting site while coordinating with law‑enforcement agencies to curb illicit gun possession. The probe remains open as officials seek to identify the individuals responsible and prevent further wildlife crimes in the area.