Convicted entomologist returns to the Czech Republic in breach of bail

Emil Kučera, a Czech entomologist convicted in Darjeeling of poaching rare insects, has breached the terms of his bail and returned to the Czech Republic. Mr Kučera was sentenced to three years in prison by an Indian court in September, though was released on bail pending his appeal. The entomologist maintains his innocence. In a letter addressed to the Czech Foreign Ministry, Mr Kučera apologized for the problems that his return home may subsequently cause the ministry, but said that he was ‘psychologically exhausted’ following the events of the last couple of months.

Author: Rosie Johnston