Bhubaneswar: In a concerted effort to combat wildlife smuggling, a joint team comprising members of the Forest Department and the Similipal Tiger Reserve recently conducted simultaneous raids in the Thakurmunda and Dudhuani Ranges of Karanjia Forest in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district. The operation resulted in the confiscation of substantial quantities of antlers, deer, and sambar horns, along with the arrest of six wildlife smugglers.
Acting on a tip-off regarding rampant wildlife smuggling in the region, the joint team carried out targeted raids in the Thakurmunda and Dudhuani Range areas. The raids led to the discovery and seizure of 4.5 kg of lightning rods from Khaprakahi village in Thakurmunda Range, where two individuals were apprehended.
Simultaneously, the team uncovered a stash of eight deer horns and six sambar horns during the operation in Padmpur village near Yashipur in Dadhuani Range. Four individuals involved in the illicit trade were arrested in connection with this find.
Shrikant Naik, the Forest Officer of Karanjia, provided details about the successful operation, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of the Forest Department and the Similipal Tiger Reserve. The seized items, including the lightning rods, deer horns, and sambar horns, underscore the scale of the illegal wildlife trade in the region.
The arrests mark a significant stride in curbing wildlife smuggling activities that pose a threat to the rich biodiversity of the area. The joint team’s prompt action based on credible information demonstrates the commitment to safeguarding the wildlife and ecosystems in and around the Karanjia Forest.
Wildlife authorities are expected to conduct further investigations to dismantle any potential networks involved in the illicit trade. The successful raids send a strong message against poaching and trafficking, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Suparjya Swain
