A 75-year-old shepherd sustained pellet injuries after suspected poachers allegedly opened fire inside a forest area near Nemalichenu hamlet in Veernamala panchayat of Ramakuppam mandal in Chittoor district on Friday (July 10, 2026).The victim, identified as Rajamanikyam, was grazing his sheep when a group of unidentified individuals, suspected of being on a poaching expedition, allegedly fired into a thicket in an attempt to hunt a wild animal. The pellets struck Rajamanikyam in the shoulder blade and both arms, causing him to collapse.Farmers working nearby rushed to his aid and took him to the local government hospital. Doctors said his condition was stable and that he was out of danger. Forest and police officials arrived at the scene after receiving information and conducted a preliminary inspection. Officials stated that efforts were under way to trace the suspects, while a further investigation is in progress. Published - July 10, 2026 06:49 pm IST