Kendrapada: In a significant operation, forest officials seized 20 kilograms of spotted deer meat from a poacher at Mahisamada reserve forest within Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapada district on Wednesday evening. The authorities also arrested a suspected poacher in connection with the incident.
Details of the Seizure
The operation was carried out based on specific intelligence regarding the illegal transportation of spotted deer meat. The meat was reportedly packed in packets for smuggling. During a routine check at Pataparia village, forest personnel searched a man's bag and made the recovery.
According to the assistant conservator of forests (ACF) of Bhitarkanika, Manas Kumar Das, the seized items included 20 kg of spotted deer meat, two sharp weapons, plastic ropes, and 10 traps. The accused, identified as Ranjan Samal, a resident of Pataparia village, has been taken into custody.
Legal Action and Investigation
The forest department has registered a case against the poacher under relevant wildlife protection laws. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the source of the meat and any possible links to a larger poaching network. Officials have emphasized their commitment to curbing wildlife crimes in the region.
Bhitarkanika National Park is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity, including saltwater crocodiles and various deer species. Such enforcement actions are crucial for the conservation of endangered and protected species in the park.
