07 May,2026 09:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav
Authorities have widened their probe into a leopard body-part supply
The investigation into a leopard-poaching incident within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) has intensified. The forest department has served notices to two men, Gajanan Dashrath Ghatale and Paresh Keshav Chaudhari, suspected of operating in an illegal animal body parts supply chain. While both men appeared before officials after securing anticipatory bail, sources told mid-day they have denied all charges.
Accused Vishal Varatha (in white) and Mayur Mhatre (in black). PICS/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
However, investigators believe their testimony is key to a larger network. "If we get even 1-2 days of custody of these two, we can expose at least two more people apart from the three we already suspect," a senior forest official stated.
The investigation took a significant turn when officials scanned the mobile phone of Vishal Varatha, a relative of Ghatale and found photos of approximately 15 leopard teeth.
When questioned, Vishal stated that three of those teeth belonged to Dashrath. "Dashrath had four teeth in his possession for nearly a year. This suggests these killings may have occurred much earlier," an official noted.
Forest officials clarified that the suspects are not typical open hunters. "They are more like opportunistic or indirect hunters. There are probably at least two gangs operating in the Masyacha Pada area focused on hunting," the official said.
Accused Anil Dhavde, Harshad Chandar Jadhav, Dinish Pagora and Santosh Govind Ghoshe
Their modus operandi: set snares, apply bait, and leave. "The next day, animals like leopards get trapped. Then they either run away or exploit the situation," the official said. The main target is wild boar, with the meat sold locally.
"The already arrested accused have admitted many things, but one thing they have not admitted is that they killed the leopard," the official said.
The two suspects are currently on interim bail. The court is scheduled to review the case diary on May 11, to determine whether to extend their bail or remand them to custody for further interrogation.
>> Vishal Waman Varatha
>> Mayur Pramod Mhatre
>> Anil Sitaram Dhawade
>> Harshad Chandar Jadhav
>> Dinesh Thakrya Pagera
>> Santosh Govind Ghoshe
>> Served notice
>> Paresh Keshav Chaudhari
>> Dashrath Gajanan Ghatal
