Leopard killed by poachers

SRINAGAR: A leopard has been killed allegedly by poachers in central Kashmir's Budgam district, police said on Friday.

The animal was believed to have been caught in a trap at Nagbal area of Yusmarg, 50 kms from here, yesterday and later killed, they said.

Five persons have been arrested in this regard, police said, adding a weapon has also been seized from their possession.

Police is also trying to ascertain whether the accused are part of a larger network of killing animals for monetary benefits.

"There are reports that the arrested have some antecedents of being poachers. We are investigating it," Station House Officer Mohammad Rafi said.