Investigation Uncovers Alleged Nexus Between Wildlife NGO And Poaching Syndicate; 10 Leopard Skins Seized

In a shocking revelation, authorities have found evidence suggesting a potential shady partnership between wildlife conservation group Wildlife SOS and poaching rings. Inside a recent seizure of 10 leopard skins, prosecutors allege a connection between the NGO and organized poachers. The probe began on July 23 when four poachers were caught with the leopard skins on the Gwalior-Agra highway.

Although Wildlife SOS claimed credit for the bust, an investigation by the Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) found two key poachers, Bhagwan Singh (Salim) and his associate Wasim, were actually tied to the NGO. Singh has been with Wildlife SOS for at least five years. Prosecutors claim Digital evidence shows CEO Kartick Satyanarayan may have orchestrated poaching events to fabricate anti-poaching successes, attract funding, and secure grants.

The NGO's own vehicle was reportedly used to plant leg-hold traps in forests around Shivpuri and Morena to target local hunters. Evidence also links Singh and Wasim to a 2023 similar seizure in Tamil Nadu. Wildlife SOS, founded in 1995, runs rescue centers across India. Officials are now reviewing the organization's partnerships, including a pending agreement for a bear rescue center in Bhopal, in the wake of these allegations. CE Kartick Satyanarayan and Sec Geeta Seshamani have yet to comment on the ongoing probe.