Acting on credible intelligence, Odisha’s Special Task Force (STF) raided a location along the Phubani-Baliguda road near Dahapadar Chhack in Kandhamal district, leading to the arrest of two alleged wildlife traffickers.
The raid, conducted on April 21, resulted in the seizure of a leopard skin and other incriminating materials. The accused, identified as Pradip Mallick (35) and Gutusha Pradhan (56), residents of Budruma, Kandhamal, failed to provide legal documentation for possessing the leopard skin. They were swiftly taken into custody and presented before the SDJM Court, Phulbani.
The STF has registered Case No. 09, citing violations under Sections 303(2)/317(2)/61(2) of the BNS, 2023, in conjunction with Section 51 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. As part of the investigation, the confiscated leopard skin will undergo biological examination at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun.
Odisha has been witnessing increased enforcement against illegal wildlife trade, with authorities determined to clamp down on poaching and trafficking networks. Officials urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to endangered species.
