THRISSUR: If the permission of the local authority is obtained, the shooters of Malappuram will reach and complete the mission to remove the wild boars that are causing crop damage. Remuneration is not asked, local bodies have no funds to give as well. Will be lucky to get food or water from some places. It started by hunting local pigs. There are 15 licensed shooters in Malappuram, Mankada, Perinthalmanna and Ottapalam areas under the command of Retd Block Officer Malappuram Ali Nellankara. Among them are traditionally licensed and rifle club members. Suresh Babu (Ottapalam), KP Shan (Nilambur), Devakumar, Chandran, VJ Thomas and Mehbub (all four in Perinthalmanna) are permanent members. In Malappuram, Palakkad and Thrissur (Thiruvilwamala ) 400 wild boars were culled in a period of six months. Next mission is at Kasaragod and Kollam. Dates for the mission are discussed by team members with farming and own businesses.

There is power, but no money

The forest department tried to solve the pig infestation with a promise of Rs 1,000 if one was killed, but to no avail. After that, an order was issued last May giving authority to the heads of local bodies to hunt pigs in residential areas, but the local bodies have no funds.

People's Mission

Around fifteen dogs will accompany the shooters. Pigs that come out when chased by dogs are shot. The bodies will be buried by locals using JCB. Around 50 people were among the group that killed 91 pigs in Thiruvilwamala last week. Along with the shooters, helpers from Malappuram will also arrive at their own expense.

Precise plan for the mission

• There should be no damage to human life or property.
• The body should be disposed of scientifically.
• Mission details should be kept in the register.
• The services of public vigilance committees can be used.
• Do not kill with poison, explosives or electricity.

The mission started seeing the tears of farmers. Many people are calling now. - Ali Nellankara