Forest department seizes bombs used for wild boar hunting in Nuapada; 3 poachers arrested

In a significant crackdown on illegal hunting activities, the Forest Department of Komna Range in Nuapada district conducted a successful raid in Sirli village and seized a cache of explosives and hunting equipment allegedly used for wild boar poaching.

The operation, conducted based on intelligence inputs, highlights the growing concern over the use of dangerous methods for hunting wildlife in forested areas.

Seizures Made

During the raid, officials seized six country-made bombs, 55 metal spikes often used to trap animals, sharp-edged weapons like axes, and bird snares, along with a quantity of wild boar meat. The seized explosives, reportedly planted to kill wild boars during their movement in the forest fringes, posed a serious threat not just to wildlife but also to human lives.

Three accused individuals—Antaram Majhi, Tejaraj Majhi, and Indramani Majhi—were arrested from the site and later forwarded to court under relevant provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Explosives Act.

Forest officials stated that the use of such explosive devices for hunting is a deeply worrying trend. “These bombs are locally assembled and extremely dangerous. They are often hidden in fields or forest trails with bait to lure wild boars. When the animal tries to eat it, the bomb detonates, causing instant death or severe injury,” said a senior forest officer from the Komna Range.

Mohammad Mustafa, ACF, said, “During the raid, we have seized boar meat and other explosives and arrested three persons in this connection.”

The recovered bombs were neutralized safely by the Bomb Disposal Squad of the local police to avoid any further risk. The Forest Department has intensified patrolling in vulnerable areas and has appealed to locals to report any suspicious activity related to illegal hunting or explosive traps.

The Forest Department has assured that further investigations will continue and strict legal action will be taken against those involved in wildlife crimes.