LIVE PANGOLIN SEIZED FROM WILD LIFE CRIMINALS BY STF

Bureau,Odishabarta

Bhubaneswar:On the basis of reliable information, STF team conducted a raid with the help of Baliguda Forest Range officials under Baliguda Forest Division Dist. Kandhamal on NH-59 near village Jakikia under Baliguda PS regarding illegal possession of live Pangolin by wild life criminals on 17.11.2021, as a result of which two accused persons namely Sibananda Mallick S/o. Gamara Mallick of village Sonubadi PS. Baliguda Dist. Kandhamal and Rastra Bhoi S/o. Late Tikka Bhoi of village Kalipushingtagabaz PS. Barakhama Dist. Kandhamal were apprehended. During search, 01 (One) Live Pangolin and other incriminating materials were seized from their possession. The accused persons could not produce any valid authority in support of possession of such Live Pangolin, for which they have been detained and handed over to Baliguda forest officials for necessary legal action at their end. The live Pangolin was also handed over to DFO, Baliguda for safe custody. Investigation is on.

During last one year, Special drive against the wildlife criminals/poachers have been launched, STF has seized as many as 20 nos Leopard skin, 11 nos Elephant Tusk, 02 deer skin, 07 live pangolin and 15 kg pangolin scales and arrested 45 wild life criminals.