Keonjhar Forest Department Cracks Down on Wildlife Trafficking
Keonjhar: In a major crackdown on wildlife trafficking, the Forest Department in Keonjhar district seized elephant tusks and pangolin scales during a raid in the Sadar forest division.
Four individuals were arrested in connection with the illegal trade.
The operation, led by Sadar Range Officer Ajit Kumar Das and Forester Jatindra Kumar Sahu, uncovered ivory smuggling activities and recovered about 1 kg of pangolin scales from the residence of accused Sunil Soren of Amrutpada village.
Soren confessed to killing a pangolin in Nayagarh forest, consuming its meat, and hiding the scales for sale.
Two others, Geda Majhi (50) of Kandarapasi village and Bibhishan Munda (22) of Sarukudara village, were detained for their involvement in ivory trafficking.
Authorities confirmed that further investigation is underway to dismantle the wider network behind the illegal trade.
Officials emphasised that the seizure highlights the ongoing threat to endangered species and the urgent need for stronger enforcement against wildlife crime in Odisha.
