Odisha STF arrests two in Kandhamal for possession of leopard skin

The Special Task Force (STF) of the Odisha Police has apprehended two individuals in Kandhamal district for illegal possession of a leopard skin, intensifying efforts against wildlife trafficking in the region.

Acting on a tip-off, STF personnel conducted a raid on April 21 along State Highway No. 1, near Dahapadar Chhak on the Phulbani–Baliguda road, under the jurisdiction of Phulbani Sadar Police Station.

During the operation, two suspects, identified as Pradip Mallick (35) and Gutusha Pradhan (56), both residents of Budruma village in Kandhamal, were arrested. Authorities recovered a leopard skin and other incriminating materials from their possession.

Legal Proceedings

The accused failed to provide valid documentation for the leopard skin. Consequently, they were presented before the Sub-Divisional Judicial Magistrate (SDJM) Court in Phulbani.

The STF has registered a case under Sections 303(2), 317(2), and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

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Forensic Examination

The seized leopard skin is slated for biological examination at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun to determine its authenticity and gather further evidence.

Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to wildlife crimes. The STF's ongoing operations aim to dismantle trafficking networks and protect the state's rich biodiversity.