Wildlife Smuggling Ring Busted in Bhubaneswar

Seven individuals, including an Odisha Industrial Security Force jawan, were arrested near Bhubaneswar for their involvement in a wildlife body parts smuggling racket. A special operation led to the seizure of a leopard skin and other parts. The arrested individuals planned to sell these items for Rs 10 lakh.

Seven individuals, including an Odisha Industrial Security Force (OISF) jawan, were apprehended from the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on Sunday for their alleged role in a wildlife body parts smuggling racket, according to police sources.

The arrests took place in Baliapada village within the Tamando police station jurisdiction during a special operation executed by the Forest Department and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau.

Authorities seized a leopard skin during the raid, carried out amid a deal in progress. A forest official, posing as a buyer, uncovered the racket. Interrogation revealed that the leopard had been killed in Boudh, and the group intended to sell the skin and other body parts for Rs 10 lakh. Additionally, tiger whiskers, teeth, and nails were among the confiscated items.

(With inputs from agencies.)