The Forest Department has arrested two persons for poaching deer and smuggling the meat at Anechowkur Wildlife Ranger, Nagarahole National Park limits, in Hunsur taluk, said Assistant Conservator of Forest A V Sathish.

The accused were said to have hunted the deer near Kembukolli elephant trench and were shifting the meat when the officials nabbed them. Two others escaped during the raid.

A country rifle, deer meat and other equipment used for the crime have been seized and cases have been filed against the duo.

A seven-member team took part in the operation.