KOTA KINABALU: Wildlife rangers seized two homemade shotguns, locally known as bakakuks, and arrested five suspected wild boar hunters in south western Sipitang district.
Sabah Wildlife Department investigating officer Melvin Armandus said the suspects and firearms with six bullets were handed to the police for investigations under the Firearms Act.
Armandus said the suspects, aged between 25 and 48 (four locals and a Sarawakian), were arrested with about 50kgs of cut-up wild boar meat during Thursday's operation.
They were believed to be hunting without a licence within an area under the Sabah Forest Industries concession.
Department deputy director Augustine Tuuga said the arrests were part of continued efforts to combat illegal poaching in the state.
"We have been getting encouraging support from the public who have been providing information on illegal poaching activities," he said.
"This clearly shows the people are becoming more aware of safeguarding the wildlife," he added.
Those with information on illegal hunting can call 012 801 9289 or email to rhinosbh@gmail.com.