Because of social network operation, poachers cornered!

Because of social network operation, poachers cornered!

After photographs related to hunting animals at Knuckles Reserve were subjected to serious discussion across social media and websites, the police who were engaged particularly in these duties had commenced operations in this connection. What was reported this morning was that the leader of this illicit gang headed by one known as Saad Sharaf and 2 others had surrendered to Panwila Police and that the police have taken action to take the others into custody. 7 individuals have already been taken into custody in

this respect by the police.

This clique of young men had indulged in a disgraceful type of fun appearing in photographs keeping rare, various types of animals such as deer, mouse deer and porcupine which are protected by the Wild Life Act in the background after keeping them in a brutal manner as a display.  Saad Sharaf who was identified as the chief suspect was someone who has joined in a musical video performing for Iraj Weeraratna.

After information about photos of animals hunted by them and weapons and tools used by them for this purpose were displayed across social networks and websites it was publicised that the police were on their trail. Having come to know the message this way they had surrendered to the police in this manner. Because of the success of the strong influence which was created across the social media they had been cornered. At the time they surrendered to the police they had handed over a pistol and an air gun including several other weapons used by them. According to information received by them at the time, 2 residents of Saint Johnswaththa, Madolkele were arrested by the police when investigations were conducted about others at which time one suspect had made his escape. The suspects arrested are expected to be produced before Teldeniya Magistrate Court.