Fake GPS records created to grab forest land; forest guard among 13 booked in Honnavar

Karwar ;In a major case exposing alleged manipulation of official records to illegally claim forest land, the Honnavar police in Honnavar have registered a criminal case against 13 individuals, including a forest guard, for allegedly creating fake GPS documents and forged maps to secure forest land allotment.

According to the complaint filed by Range Forest Officer Savita Devadiga of the Karnataka Forest Department, the accused conspired to fabricate GPS coordinates and supporting records to falsely show occupation and eligibility over forest land located in Jalavalli under the Honnavar forest division.

Among those booked is Mahabal Manju Gowda, a forest guard attached to the Belke forest range in Bhatkal taluk, who allegedly played a key role in generating fake GPS data. The police have also named eight primary accused who allegedly attempted to obtain forest land using forged documents. They include residents from Maraballi, Kervalli, Kanagoda, and Chikkanakod villages in Honnavar taluk.

Investigations revealed that the accused created fake GPS readings and maps to falsely establish claims over forest land. A forged map was allegedly prepared with the help of another accused, while fake seals resembling those of the forest department were used to authenticate the fabricated records. These documents were reportedly inserted into official files of the Forest Rights Committee (FRC) through the alleged involvement of two staff members from the Social Welfare Department.

Officials stated that the objective was to illegally obtain government forest land under the guise of legitimate claims. The fraudulent records were designed to mislead authorities conducting surveys and land verification processes.

The case has been registered under relevant sections related to forgery, criminal conspiracy, cheating, and misuse of official position. Police sources said further investigation is underway to determine whether more individuals or officials were involved in the conspiracy.

The incident has raised serious concerns within the forest department, especially at a time when joint surveys are being conducted to identify legitimate forest dwellers and settle land rights claims under existing laws. Authorities fear that such fraudulent activities could undermine genuine claims and threaten protected forest areas.

Officials have reiterated that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in creating fake documents or attempting to illegally acquire forest land. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are likely as police continue to examine documentary and digital evidence.