Rapper Vedan, who goes by Hiran Das Murali, has faced a major setback in a wildlife case linked to a necklace seized from his property.Asianet News reports that scientific analysis has now confirmed that the tooth attached to the necklace is a genuine tiger tooth.According to reports, the confirmation came after detailed tests at the Zoological Survey laboratory in Kolkata. Forest officials initially suspected the tooth to be genuine during preliminary examination. The item was sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis in order to obtain conclusive scientific evidence.
The charge sheet will be submitted soon
After the laboratory confirmation, the Kerala Forest Department is preparing to file a formal charge against Vedan. Officials are currently collecting the final documents and evidence to present to the court. The case relates to the alleged illegal possession of a tiger tooth, which is prohibited under India’s wildlife laws.Under the Wildlife Protection Act, possession of tiger parts is a punishable offence. If convicted, the defendant could face up to three years in prison.
How in the Veda Tiger tooth case it started
According to reports, the case arose in April last year when Vedan and five other police officers were arrested in connection with a ganja-related investigation. During a search at the rapper’s residence in Kochi, the police found a necklace that looked like a tiger’s tooth.The police then informed the Forest Department about the seizure. A team from Kodanad visited the residence, confiscated the collar and registered a case against Vedan under relevant wildlife protection provisions.
Vedan explanation and bond
During questioning, Vedan told investigators that he received the necklace as a gift in 2022. According to his statement, a man of Sri Lankan origin named Ranjith Kumbidi presented the item to him during a rap performance in Chennai. Vedan also revealed that he met Ranjith through social media.After registering the case, Vedan was granted bail under strict conditions. Since then, the investigation has continued while officials await scientific confirmation of the tooth’s authenticity.
The search for key witnesses continues
While the latest report confirms that the seized item is a genuine tiger tooth, investigators are yet to trace Ranjith Kumbidi, who allegedly gifted the necklace. Authorities believe he may have moved to the UK or France, complicating efforts to trace him.He informed that the Forest Department approached the Perumbavoor Magistrate Court to get the laboratory findings. With the scientific report in hand and the evidence already collected, the officials are filing the charge sheet against Vedan.