Czech entomologists arrested in India may be released on bail

The acting Czech consul in New Dehli has revealed that the future of two Czech researchers arrested not long ago in India could be decided in court on Monday. Emil Kučera, 52, and biologist Petr Švácha, 51, were arrested late last month for allegedly collecting rare insects, a serious offence under India’s wildlife protection act. The researchers are believed to have collected several hundred specimens and each faces up to seven years in prison. They defended their actions by saying they had no idea they had been within a national park. Czech officials have confirmed there is a good chance the researchers could now be released on bail. The Czech scientific community reacted to their case by circulating a petition of support of both suspects. It was signed by 525 people and presented to the Indian prime minister.