Odisha Vigilance Forest Wing Seizes Leopard Skin, Arrests Hunter in Boudh
The Forest Wing of Odisha Vigilance carried out a swift raid in the Madhapur Forest Range under the Boudh Forest Division on Monday, leading to the seizure of a leopard skin and the arrest of a hunter.
Acting on reliable intelligence, the team intercepted the accused, identified as Jaya Nayak, who was found in illegal possession of the protected animal’s skin.
Authorities confirmed that Nayak has been booked under Section 9 and punishable under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which strictly prohibits hunting, possession, and trade of scheduled species.
Leopards, listed under Schedule I of the Act, enjoy the highest level of protection due to their vulnerable status.
Officials emphasised that such seizures highlight the persistent challenges in tackling poaching and illegal wildlife trade across Odisha’s forest regions.
Investigations are underway to determine whether the accused has links to larger trafficking networks. A detailed report is expected as the probe progresses.
This incident underscores the vigilance department’s commitment to safeguarding endangered species and enforcing wildlife protection laws in the state.
