ED Raid in Udala Uncovers Wildlife Contraband; Forest Department Arrests Suspect
Udala: In a significant development during an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation into an alleged ₹122-crore fraud case, wildlife contraband was reportedly recovered from a residence in Odisha’s Udala region, leading to the arrest of a suspect by the Forest Department.
According to reports, the ED carried out an extensive search operation at the residence of Ishwar Bindhani in Bishol village under the Kaptipada police limits as part of an ongoing probe into the suspected financial fraud.
During the search, officials allegedly discovered deer antlers and elephant tusks, raising concerns over possible violations of wildlife protection laws.
Following the recovery, Forest Department officials reached the spot and launched a separate investigation.
After examining the seized items, authorities arrested Bindhani and confiscated the wildlife materials for further examination and legal proceedings.
The ED’s search operation reportedly continued for several hours. Investigators also seized land ownership documents, jewellery, and bank passbooks that are expected to aid the ongoing financial probe.
Officials have not yet disclosed the full extent of the findings from the search.
Investigations by both the ED and the Forest Department are underway, and further action may follow based on the evidence collected.
