Forest Department destroys 125 illegal guns in Tiruvannamalai
The Forest Department destroyed 125 illegal country-made guns with a road roller at the Collectorate in Tiruvannamalai on Tuesday as part of Wildlife Week celebrations. Collector Vandana Garg launched the drive, attended by Superintendent of Police R. Udhayakumar and District Forest Officer K. Sudhagar. Officials said the aim was to prevent illegal hunting and protect wildlife. Nadanur range accounted for the most guns at 41, followed by Santhavasal 22, Melpattu 19, Polur 17 and Jamunamarathur 15. General amnesty in 2016 and 2021 helped tribals surrender firearms voluntarily, officials said.