HYDERABAD: What started as a peaceful morning in Lakshminagar, Parigi, Vikarabad district quickly turned into a dramatic bust when locals stumbled upon a clandestine pigeon racing and betting operation on Saturday. Alerted by unusual activity, residents noticed two men unloading large boxes of pigeons from a goods vehicle and immediately informed the police.
Acting on the tip-off, police rushed to the spot and apprehended the suspects, identified as Shaik Munawar and Baba John from Gorantla in Andhra Pradesh’s Satyasai district. The accused were found in possession of pigeons fitted with tracking chips and coded tags, suggesting their involvement in the illegal racing and betting.
The Secret World of Pigeon Racing
During questioning, the duo confessed to being part of an organised pigeon racing and betting event masterminded by one Premkumar, also from Gorantla in AP. The event involved releasing pigeons from Parigi, precisely 300 kilometres from their destination, Gorantla. The pigeons, equipped with tracking devices, had to navigate back to their home. The first bird to arrive would secure a significant prize for its owner.
The suspects admitted to transporting more than 300 pigeons packed into 20 boxes, intending to release them gradually. By the time authorities intervened, ten pigeons were already set loose. According to the police, these pigeons, trained for endurance and speed, can fly swiftly, often reaching their destinations in hours.
Police Action
Inspector S. Srinivas Reddy, leading the investigation, confirmed that the two suspects were taken into custody, while the main accused, Premkumar, is still at large. “They chose Parigi as the release point because it is the ideal distance for the race. Based on information provided, we were able to seize the remaining pigeons before more could be released,” said Inspector Reddy.
The police have involved the Forest Department in the case, as the operation may also violate wildlife regulations. The suspects face charges under the Gaming Act and Animal Welfare Act.
Police said pigeon racing and betting, although relatively obscure, have a rich history in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Enthusiasts invest heavily in these birds, meticulously training them for endurance, navigation, and speed.
