Thane forest division announces Rs 25,000 reward in Yeoor monkey attack case

Monkey shot by an arrow at Yeoor near SNGP. (Pic/WWA / Maharashtra Forest Department)

In view of identifying and nabbing the culprit behind the case of animal cruelty in the last few days, the Thane Forest Division on Tuesday announced a cash reward of Rs 25,000.

As per the Forest Department, Thane, the amount will be awarded for providing information leading to the arrest of the accused who injured two bonnet macaques using a bow and arrow in Yeoor.

While issuing an official statement, they said, "Residents of the Yeoor area as well as all citizens of Thane city are requested to come forward with any information regarding the accused involved in the above crime. A cash reward of Rs 25,000 will be given by the Forest Department to anyone providing credible information."

The disturbing incidents were reported from the forested region of Yeoor Hills, part of the eco-sensitive belt near Thane. Forest officials confirmed that both monkeys sustained injuries in separate attacks, raising serious concerns about wildlife safety in the area.

As per the officials, authorities have registered offences against an unidentified individual under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

The Thane Forest Department has appealed to residents of Yeoor and citizens across Thane to assist in the investigation by sharing any relevant information. Authorities have assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential to encourage people to come forward without fear.

Assuring that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential, they added that information about the accused can be shared with the following officials:

Contact details:

• Santosh Dagle, Forest Officer (Mumbai/Thane): 9892684266
• C.J. Khandvi, Forester (Thane): 9370114399

Monkeys were attacked with a professional arrow

The monkeys (bonnet macaques) who were attacked recently are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides them the highest level of protection.

Honorary Wildlife Warden of Thane and President of NGO RAWW, Pawan Sharma, told Mid-day that the arrow used in the incident appears to be a professional one used in archery.

Sharma further added, "The forest department has begun the investigation to initiate appropriate action. The animal will undergo major surgery and remain under treatment and rehabilitation with RAWW under 24x7 care and monitoring."