American Hunting: Starting with Solitary Life in the Wilderness

Chapter 338 Cooperating with the Police Investigation!

An hour later, night had completely fallen.

The support forces from the foot of the mountain finally arrived at the scene, and the high-powered searchlights illuminated the entire abandoned mining area as if it were daytime.

The forest police officers set up a cordon and began a detailed on-site investigation and evidence collection.

Paramedics provided emergency first aid to the injured criminals before escorting them, along with the other inmates, into a police vehicle.

Sun Changji had stopped crying, standing like a soulless statue, staring blankly as the forensic doctor covered his daughter's body with a white sheet. He allowed two policemen to drag him away.

Soon after, the two soldiers who went to the sniper position also brought back the latest news.

"Report, Captain!" A soldier ran up to Yang Zhen and handed him the SVD rifle that had been blown up.

"The sniper has been confirmed dead, and no items were found at the scene that could identify him."

Yang Zhen frowned. He knew this person was definitely professionally trained and had a strong sense of counter-surveillance.

At this moment, the leader of the forest police team came over, grasped Yang Zhen's hand tightly, and expressed his gratitude.

"Hello Captain Yang, I am the criminal police officer in charge of the 312 poaching case. My name is Li Jianguo."

"Thank you so much this time! If it weren't for your swift action, we don't know how much more we would have had to pay to take down this gang that has been entrenched for so many years."

Yang Zhen shook his head, his face not showing much joy of victory. He glanced at the dirt road leading out of the mountains and said in a deep voice, "It's a pity that the main culprit still got away."

"Hehe, he's definitely not going anywhere."

"Captain Yang, just as you took down that sniper, our checkpoints on all the main roads leading out of the mountains received a request for assistance from the command center."

He paused, looked at Yang Zhen and said, "Half an hour ago, a checkpoint on the far east side reported that they successfully intercepted a suspect riding a three-wheeled motorcycle who attempted to break through the checkpoint."

"We've taken the person into custody. The photos just arrived; take a look."

Li Jianguo handed over the phone, and on the screen was Uncle Gui's wrinkled face, but now it was no longer calm, only the fear and despair after being arrested.

"It's him!" Yang Zhen confirmed.

"Then that's it. The net of heaven is vast, and though its meshes are wide, nothing escapes it." Li Jianguo put away his phone, a knowing smile on his face.

Upon learning that the main culprit had been captured, Yang Zhen's face, which had been as tense as steel, finally revealed a genuine smile.

He let out a long sigh of relief, feeling all the muscles in his back relax.

He squeezed Li Jianguo's hand tightly and said sincerely, "It's good that you caught him! It's good that you caught him!"

But then he remembered something, raised an eyebrow, and said to Li Jianguo, half-complaining and half-seriously, "To be honest, I really don't understand."

"What can't you figure out?"

“This old guy,” Yang Zhen pointed to the direction of the phone, “was so calm and collected when we cornered him before.”

"It's that arrogant talk again about not being able to catch me, and the sniper again. You've built up the atmosphere so much that I actually thought we'd met a big fish, or some international crime syndicate."

"At the time, I was thinking that this guy might have some tricks up his sleeve, like hiding some secret passage in the mountains. I was even prepared to fight a long guerrilla war with him."

"And the result?" He shrugged, his face clearly saying, "That's it?"

"So, after all that, his biggest advantage was a sniper hiding on the mountaintop and a beat-up tricycle?"

After hearing this, Li Jianguo burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the empty mining area.

"Captain Yang, you've been dealing with too many ruthless drug dealers and terrorists, and you've started to imagine all criminals as characters from movies." He shook his head with a smile.

"These poachers are, to put it bluntly, a bunch of greedy rats."

"They may be ruthless, familiar with the mountains and forests, and somewhat clever, but in the face of the true state apparatus..."

Li Jianguo's eyes sharpened. "Their so-called trump cards and schemes are as fragile as a piece of paper."

"He thought one sniper could keep the situation under control, but he didn't know that there were eyes in the sky and dozens of nets waiting for him to walk right into them."

“In the end,” Li Jianguo concluded, “it is the progress of the times that has made his outdated methods of violently deterring crime both laughable and pathetic.”

These words dispelled the last trace of unease in Yang Zhen's heart.

He smiled with relief. Yes, he had indeed been overly nervous.

He glanced once more at the dirt road leading out of the mountains. This time, his eyes were no longer gloomy; only the relief of completing the mission and pride in his comrades remained.

Having resolved his biggest concern, Yang Zhen immediately turned to another crucial question: "However, the identity of that sniper..."

Li Jianguo's expression also turned serious: "This is also the direction we need to focus on next. Judging from the situation on the ground, they have a very strong counter-surveillance awareness and are a tough opponent."

“We will immediately conduct DNA and fingerprint comparisons on the body and carry out a surprise interrogation of the criminals.”

"Don't worry, the sniper's background will soon come to light. Anyone who dares to use a gun on our soil will have their entire family history thoroughly investigated!"

After dealing with the situation on site, Lin Yu'an and Xiao Li also descended from the high ground.

A young police officer politely stepped forward and said to Lin Yu'an, "Mr. Lin, hello. I am Zhang Wei from the Criminal Investigation Division of the Municipal Public Security Bureau."

"According to regulations, as an important civilian assistant in this operation, you need to come back to the station with us to give a detailed statement about the entire process. We hope you can understand and cooperate."

“I understand, that’s the right thing to do.” Lin Yu’an nodded.

"In addition," Zhang Wei's gaze fell on Lin Yu'an's professional filming equipment. Although his tone was polite, his attitude left no room for doubt.

"We need to temporarily seize all your filming equipment for a comprehensive technical review and confidentiality processing. We hope you can understand and cooperate."

"I understand, it's the right thing to do, and I will fully cooperate." Lin Yu'an was very clear that the review of matters involving military operations was a red line that absolutely required cooperation.

Just then, Yang Zhen, who had already taken off his tactical helmet, walked over. He first nodded to Zhang Wei, then turned to Lin Yu'an and said in an apologetic but equally firm tone:

"Teacher Lin, I need to explain this to you."

He glanced at the soldiers still busy around him, and lowered his voice even further.

“I know these images are very valuable to you, but they contain footage of our team’s operations.”

"Including the appearance, voice, tactical movements, equipment details, and even our unit designations—all of these will eventually be completely deleted."

He paused, his eyes becoming incredibly serious: "This isn't just about protecting them, it's also about protecting you."

"Let me tell you a real case." Yang Zhen's voice carried a hint of sorrow.

"Many years ago, our brother unit cooperated with an ordinary citizen on the southwestern border to arrest a group of drug traffickers."

"After the operation, the civilian was remembered by the hidden drug dealers."

"As a result... a month later, the family of that person suffered cruel retaliation."

Yang Zhen said with utmost sincerity, "Therefore, Professor Lin," I hope you can understand and strictly adhere to the highest confidentiality procedures when handling any memories related to you and us.

"This is not a lack of trust in you, but an ironclad rule learned through bloodshed."

Lin Yu'an was deeply moved and nodded solemnly, saying, "Captain Yang, don't worry, I completely understand. Actually, I have an idea."

He looked at Li Jianguo and Yang Zhen and made a bold suggestion.

“I voluntarily hand over all of these video materials. You can conduct the most rigorous review. I will take back my portion after all the classified information has been processed.”

“But I hope,” his eyes gleamed with an unprecedented light, “that they won’t all be destroyed.”

"I hope that, with the approval of the higher authorities of the public security and armed police, the anonymized images from this operation can be made into a public service documentary on anti-poaching."

"Why?" Li Jianguo asked curiously. "Because of the awe!" Lin Yu'an replied, "We can choose not to film the soldiers' faces, but we can show them their figures descending from the sky."

"We can film their professionalism as they silently move through the jungle! We don't need to show the weapon models, but we can show the decisiveness of a bullet piercing a bandit's hand."

"We can demonstrate to all potential criminals the devastating power of the Stinger drone! And that thermal imaging drones can see clearly even in dense fog!"

"Use the most direct visuals to tell them not to take chances! In the face of modern technology and the machinery of the state, your pitiful jungle experience is utterly meaningless!"

"No matter where you hide, the country can find you! This overwhelming deterrent effect brought about by technology is far more powerful than any preaching!"

These words made Yang Zhen and Li Jianguo fall into deep thought. They instantly understood the profound significance behind Lin Yu'an's suggestion.

Li Jianguo pondered for a moment, then nodded solemnly: "Mr. Lin, your idea... is very insightful. I personally support it very much."

He changed the subject and said seriously, "However, the decision-making power over this matter is beyond my authority."

"It requires joint approval from the municipal bureau, the provincial department, and even the armed police."

"I can only guarantee that I will submit your suggestion verbatim as a formal report. But I dare not make any promises as to whether it will be approved."

“That’s enough.” Lin Yu’an smiled. “I have faith in our country.”

The time for parting had come. A mountain breeze swept through the mining area, carrying a hint of night coolness and dispelling the tense atmosphere of the previous standoff.

Xiao Wang and several other soldiers who had removed their equipment surrounded him. Their faces no longer held a cold, murderous aura, but rather a youthful enthusiasm.

"Teacher Lin, I must say you are truly amazing! Your tracking skills are even better than some scouts!"

"Yes, Teacher Lin, I will definitely make more videos in the future to teach us about wilderness survival."

The soldiers expressed their admiration and gratitude in a cacophony of voices, their words filled with heartfelt sincerity.

Having gone through life-or-death trials together, they now regard this folk expert as a trustworthy partner.

Lin Yu-an smiled and responded to each of them, creating a relaxed and warm atmosphere.

Finally, Yang Zhen came over. He took off his heavy tactical helmet, revealing a resolute face stained with sweat and gunpowder.

Those sharp, hawk-like eyes now held a hint of gentleness. He reached out his hand to Lin Yu'an and shook it firmly.

The roughness and strength of a soldier's hands convey his most direct emotions.

“Teacher Lin,” his voice was incredibly sincere, “you were not only our guide on this mission, but also our comrade-in-arms. At the most critical moment, you provided us with the eyes.”

He paused, then added solemnly, "On behalf of the Sharp Blade Squad, I extend my highest military respect to you!"

Lin Yu'an squeezed his hand back, his gaze sweeping over these young yet powerful soldiers, his heart filled with emotion.

"Captain Yang, you flatter me. My skills are nothing to brag about. You are the true heroes who bear the burden and protect the peace of our country!"

Yang Zhen grinned, revealing a set of white teeth. This smile softened the hard lines on his face, making him appear exceptionally cheerful.

"Whether one is a hero or not, it's all about fulfilling one's duty." He changed the subject, a hint of longing and anticipation flashing in his eyes.

"To be honest, Teacher Lin, this collaboration with you has been an eye-opener. Seeing your composure in the mountains and your ability to blend in with nature, I admire you from the bottom of my heart."

He looked at the dark mountains in the distance, as if talking to himself, or as if making a promise: "When I take off this uniform, or when I have a long vacation, I will definitely come to find you."

"Let's not talk about missions or captures, let's just have a real wilderness survival experience as ordinary people!"

These words made Lin Yu'an laugh as well. He could feel the sincerity and mutual appreciation behind the invitation.

"No problem!" He nodded solemnly. "You're welcome anytime. I'll take you to see different scenery then."

“It’s a deal!” Yang Zhen nodded emphatically.

The simple agreement was like a silent contract between men.

"Alright, I won't keep you any longer." Yang Zhen withdrew his gaze, resuming his role as captain. "The police will handle the rest, so please don't worry. Take care!"

"Take care, you too!" Lin Yu'an said sincerely to the soldiers.

Yang Zhen put on his helmet, turned around, leaving only a solid back view, and shouted to the others: "Everyone, get your gear ready and prepare to evacuate!"

"Yes!"

The soldiers waved to Lin Yu'an again, then quickly and orderly began to get to work.

Watching their figures operate like precise machines, this brief encounter may have come to an end, but the friendship forged amidst gunfire and jungle will be remembered forever.

……

That evening, in a brightly lit office at the Kunming Public Security Bureau, Lin Yu'an had just completed a detailed statement that lasted for several hours.

He recounted without reservation how he discovered the poachers' trail, how he met the Sharp Blade team, and how he helped them track and lock onto their target.

Just as he finished signing and was about to leave the interrogation room, a police officer pushed open the door and walked in, followed by several middle-aged men in suits who looked like they were in a hurry.

"Teacher Lin, thank you for your hard work." Li Jianguo shook hands with him first, then turned to the side and solemnly introduced him.

"This is Director Liang Wenbin of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of KM City. He was very concerned about your safety after receiving our report and came here overnight."

"Yu'an! You scared me to death!"

This affectionate yet urgent "Yu'an" momentarily stunned Li Jianguo and the other police officers present, who then exchanged a knowing glance.

They immediately realized that the internationally renowned wilderness expert in front of them had a close personal relationship with the head of the municipal culture and tourism bureau.

Liang Wenbin looked Lin Yu'an up and down, and only breathed a sigh of relief after confirming that he was not injured, but his face still showed a complicated expression of relief and reproach.

"You, trying to do an extreme challenge, how did you end up taking down an armed criminal gang? My heart can't take this kind of strain! What am I going to explain if the old Party Secretary asks about it later?"

These words, seemingly a complaint, are actually full of closeness and care, and cleverly point out Lin Yu'an's importance, that even the old Party Secretary is paying attention to him.

Lin Yu'an smiled a little embarrassedly: "Uncle Liang, I'm sorry to have worried you. I'm fine."

Li Jianguo was a smart man. From their conversation, he instantly understood the deep relationship between Lin Yu'an and the head of the Culture and Tourism Bureau, as well as the profound meaning behind Liang Wenbin's personal rush to the scene overnight.

He stepped forward and said to Liang Wenbin, "Director Liang, don't worry, Mr. Lin has done us a great favor this time and is a hero who has made a great contribution!"

"Our public security system will specifically recommend him for commendation; we will never let a hero shed both sweat and tears."

These words were perfectly worded, acknowledging Lin Yu'an's contributions while also giving the city leaders ample face.

Then, he changed the subject and turned his gaze back to Lin Yu'an.

Although his tone remained polite, his eyes regained the seriousness and rigor expected of a veteran criminal investigator.

“However, Director Liang, Mr. Lin,” he deliberately addressed the two of them side by side, “rules are rules. There are some procedures that still require Mr. Lin’s cooperation.”

He instructed a young police officer next to him: "Xiao Liu, immediately make up a list of Mr. Lin's equipment, have Mr. Lin sign it to confirm, and then send it to the technical department and the cyber security branch."

"Have them expedite the review! They must complete the review of all the video materials within 72 hours and make a copy of the non-classified content."

Then, he said to Lin Yu'an, "Mr. Lin, the statement has been taken. You can go back to your hotel and rest now. We will contact you by phone if we need your cooperation in any further matters."

“However,” Li Jianguo raised his hand and added the most crucial point in a gentle but firm tone.

“Mr. Lin, I must formally inform you that you cannot leave KM City until the investigation is concluded.”

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

(The monthly pass redemption for a teddy bear event ends tonight, so hurry up if you want to redeem it!)

(End of this chapter)