Dead Deer Found Near Balasore Highway Sparks Smuggling Fears

Balasore: Panic and suspicion gripped locals after a dead deer was found near Nidhipada Square along the highway in Balasore district.

The carcass, discovered with blood oozing from its mouth, was accompanied by a towel and slippers, raising fears of poaching and illegal wildlife smuggling.

Residents expressed shock as the area has no forest cover or history of wild animals straying into human settlements.

Many suspect that smugglers transported the deer illegally and abandoned it when threatened by police patrols.

Wildlife crime has been a recurring concern in Odisha, with poaching rackets active around Kuldiha Sanctuary and adjoining Mayurbhanj.

Reports of elephant, boar, sambar, and deer killings have surfaced in recent years, pointing to organised networks.

Local police and forest officials rushed to the site, and the Forest Department has initiated an investigation.

A post‑mortem will determine the cause of death, while authorities probe possible links to smuggling.

Crowds gathered quickly at the scene, reflecting public concern over the growing menace of wildlife trafficking in the state.