Poacher Arrested in Baripada, Tiger Cub Skin Seized
Baripada (Mayurbhanj): In a major breakthrough against wildlife crime, forest officials in Mayurbhanj arrested a poacher and seized the skin of a three‑year‑old tiger cub.
The accused, identified as Raju Alda, was caught during a covert operation in Sarasposi village near Bangriposi forest range.
Acting on intelligence that poachers were attempting to sell the tiger skin, officials posed as traders to set up a trap.
When Alda produced the skin from a bag, the team led by Ranger Maheswar Singh, under the guidance of DFO Gobinda Chandra Biswal, intercepted him.
During interrogation, Alda claimed he was only selling the skin and named another youth from Charabandh village in Talabandha range, Simlipal, as being involved.
The forest department confirmed that Alda has been medically examined and formally arrested.
Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend others linked to the poaching and illegal trade.
Authorities emphasised that the operation highlights their commitment to protecting endangered species and curbing wildlife trafficking in Odisha.
