Shivamogga forest office gun theft: Investigation launched after two-month silence

SHIVAMOGGA: In a major development, a case of arms theft has been reported nearly two months after a rifle went missing from Sirigere forest range in Shivamogga.

Pawan Achar, a driver at the Range Forest Officer (RFO) office, has been accused of stealing an official double-barrel gun and hiding it for two months. The theft was discovered by the new RFO, Aravind, in August when he took charge. The gun was previously under the supervision of DRFO Shivakumar.

Following a tip-off, the Chief Conservator of Forests, Shivamogga wildlife division's DCF Prasanna Krishna Patgar, visited the RFO's office and cautioned the staff in mid-August. Although colleagues suspected Pawan due to his issues with DRFO Shivakumar, he initially denied any involvement. However, the truth was eventually revealed by Pawan's friend Sudhish, who admitted to selling the gun for 26,000 rupees and keeping 6,000 for himself.

RFO Aravind lodged a complaint with Kumsi police, leading to the termination of Pawan's contract the previous week.

The silence of senior officials on the issue has raised concerns about accountability in the matter.

ACF Suresh instructed RFO Aravind to handle the issue, stating his limited authority to brief the media. RFO Aravind confirmed to TOI that he had sought police action.

According to sources, the police have only questioned Sudhish. However, Kumsi Police claim that the matter had been resolved, with the accused returning the gun.

The Rainland Conservation Community has strongly condemned the incident and demanded action against wrongdoers.