Hanur: Violence erupted in Karnataka's Hanur area on Saturday after forest officials allegedly shot dead three suspected poachers during an encounter inside a forest. Visuals aired on news channels showed protesters attacking the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary office following the deaths.
Officials confirmed that three people were killed while another sustained serious injuries.
The deceased have been identified as Antonyswamy (50), a resident of Marimangala; John Rose Peter (42), a resident of Jagannatha Doddi; and Kumar (33), a resident of Larsardoddi. Another one, Mahimadas (45) of Marimangala village, who was injured, is reportedly on the run.
According to reports, the four men had entered the forest in the early hours of Saturday to hunt wild animals. Forest personnel, acting on a tip-off, intercepted the group inside the forest.
Officials are said to have opened fire in self-defence after allegedly coming under attack from the four-member gang.
Police said the bodies have been shifted to Mysore Medical College Hospital for post-mortem examination.
Further details are awaited.