A shocking gun theft has shaken the Sirigere forest range in Shivamogga, Karnataka. Pawan Achar, a driver at the Range Forest Officer (RFO) office, allegedly stole an official double-barrel gun and concealed it for two months. The gun went missing under the watch of DRFO Shivakumar, and its disappearance was only discovered in August by new RFO Aravind.
The investigation began after a tip-off, led Chief Conservator of Forests, DCF Prasanna Krishna Patgar, to visit the RFO’s office and warn staff. Colleagues suspected Pawan due to his issues with DRFO Shivakumar, but he denied involvement. However, Pawan’s friend Sudhish later revealed the truth.
Sudhish sold the gun for 26,000 rupees, keeping 6,000. Pawan’s contract was terminated after RFO Aravind filed a complaint with Kumsi police.
The incident has raised concerns about accountability, particularly due to senior officials’ silence. ACF Suresh directed RFO Aravind to address the issue, citing limited authority to brief media.
There is discrepancy in police action, with sources claiming only Sudhish was questioned, while Kumsi Police Inspector Deepak Hegde says the matter is settled with the gun returned.
The Rainland Conservation Community condemns the incident, demanding action against Pawan, given the range’s location within the wildlife circle.
