Tripura: Two held after killing monkeys, monitor lizard in Unakoti

Forest officials have taken two youths into custody after they allegedly killed four monkeys and a monitor lizard in Tarani Nagar Malakar Para, Kanchan Bari area of Fatikrai, Unakoti District.

The incident sparked outrage among local residents, who initially attempted to capture the accused themselves. According to police reports, some villagers had planned to restrain the suspects in sacks, but the situation was defused when other community members stepped in.

"Compassionate members in the community intervened, preventing potential mob violence and ensuring the accused were handed over safely to authorities," a police spokesperson said.

While two suspects were successfully apprehended, officials confirmed that two additional individuals believed to be involved in the killings managed to escape. Forest Department officials have registered a case under the Wildlife Protection Act and launched a search operation to locate the fugitives.

The Forest Department has taken over the investigation and will pursue legal action against those involved in the killing of the protected animals.