Pune Forest Officials Conduct Rescue Mission for Protected Bonnet Macaque in Katewasti In Punawale
Pune Forest Officials Conduct Rescue Mission for Protected Bonnet Macaque in Katewasti In Punawale
30/July/2024
A young Bonnet Macaque, a protected species listed under Schedule I, Part A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, was rescued on Saturday (July 27) in Katewasti, Punawale.
The macaque, around eight months old, was discovered tied with a rope. After an investigation, Aslam Razzak Shaikh, a resident of Sade, Taluka Karmala, District Solapur, and presently living in Katewasti, Punawale, was taken into custody. Shaikh, employed at a salon, is facing charges under Sections 39, 48(a), 49, 50, and 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Authorities stated that Shaikh had kept the baby monkey for about four to five months. He mentioned finding the macaque when it was 1.5 to 2 months old and in a weak state. Shaikh claimed to have nursed the monkey back to health, and it is now doing well. Even though there was no ill intent, officials highlighted that his unlawful possession of wildlife required legal intervention.
The rescued monkey has been taken to the RESQ centre for additional treatment and care.
The rescue mission was overseen by Forest Range Officer (Mulshi) Santosh Chavan, Forest Ranger Ghotavade Pragya Bansode, and Forest Guards Pandurang Kopner, Raosaheb Chaure, and Santosh Mundhe.
