Authorities in Thane, Maharashtra, are investigating the cruel arrow attacks on monkeys in Yeoor forest and offering a reward to catch the perpetrators, highlighting the importance of wildlife protection.
Forest authorities have launched a probe into two cases of monkeys injured by arrows in the Yeoor forest in Maharashtra's Thane district and announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for information on the culprits, officials said on Thursday.
The two bonnet macaques were found targeted similarly within a span of two days recently, with arrows piercing their neck and jaw, a forest department release on Wednesday said.
The injured animals were rescued by wildlife welfare experts and administered immediate medical treatment.
A reward of Rs 25,000 will be given to anyone providing credible information about the culprits, the forest department said.
"We have formed three teams to trace the culprits. CCTV footage is being examined and all possible leads are being pursued. Strict action will be taken against the culprits under the Wildlife Protection Act," an official said.
Two cases were registered on March 20 and 22 against unidentified persons under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the release said.