Illegal hunting cases detected with molecular forensics in India

Illegal hunting is one of the major threats to wildlife flora and fauna. In present study, we identified five cases of suspected wildlife poaching by using the molecular techniques. Mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cyt-b) and 12S ribosomal rRNA (12S rRNA) genes identified five wild species, Chinkara (Gazella bennetti), Peafowl (Pavo cristatus), Musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster), Black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus) and Tiger (Panthera tigris). In India, poaching and hunting is a illegal offense, and based on this evidence, the accused were found guilty and punished. The genetic analysis used in this investigative study was suitable to diagnose the species killed and solve these criminal investigations. Molecular DNA forensic techniques can provide an important tool that enables local law enforcement agencies to apprehend illegal poachers