The Odisha Forest Department has uncovered a significant wildlife trafficking case in Nayagarh, leading to the arrest of a woman and her son.
Authorities seized a leopard skin along with 164 pangolin scales, highlighting ongoing concerns over illegal wildlife trade in the region.
Raid Conducted on Intelligence Inputs
The operation was carried out in the Kujamendi Beat House area under the Daspalla Range following specific intelligence.
- Jyotsna Rani Mallik and her son Pradeep Mallik were apprehended from Kujamendi village
- Both have been produced before the court after their arrest
Significant Seizure Raises Alarm
Divisional Forest Officer Debarchan Behera confirmed the recovery and said:
- The leopard skin is suspected to have originated from the Phulbani region
- Pangolin scales were allegedly obtained by killing the protected species in Daspalla
- The volume of seized items indicates the involvement of an organised trafficking network
Search On for Absconding Accused
Officials have confirmed that:
- Another suspect linked to the case remains absconding
- Search operations are ongoing across multiple locations
- Efforts are being intensified to dismantle the wider network
Threat to Endangered Wildlife
The case highlights the vulnerability of endangered species such as:
- Leopard
- Pangolin
Illegal poaching and trafficking continue to pose serious threats to biodiversity and ecological balance.
The seizure in Nayagarh underscores the need for sustained enforcement and public awareness to combat wildlife crime. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting endangered species and taking strict action against offenders.
