May 24, 2025( OT Webdesk): A forest guard lost his life in a tragic poaching attack in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district, sparking concerns over wildlife protection and officer safety.
The victim, Prahlad Pradhan (37), was patrolling the Hindol forest region when poachers opened fire at around 3 AM, fatally hitting him in the abdomen.
Despite efforts to rush him to the District Headquarters Hospital in Angul, he was pronounced dead.
Authorities swiftly responded by arresting four suspects and recovering firearms. Investigations continue to locate other poachers who fled the scene.
Following the incident, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow and announced ₹30 lakh financial assistance for Pradhan’s family.
He also directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) to conduct a thorough investigation.
The attack has reignited debates about the dangers faced by forest officials and the urgent need for stricter security measures.
Conservationists urge stronger policies to safeguard personnel stationed in poaching-prone areas.
As wildlife crime remains rampant, authorities have vowed to intensify anti-poaching operations across Odisha’s forests.
