TV
A member of the forest protection team, ‘Sabuja Bahini’, was allegedly attacked by three poachers at his residence. The victim, Bharat Shatrusal was attacked in Dahisahi village under Kaptipada police limits of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district on Sunday night. The assault followed threats made months ago after a massive crackdown on hunting activities in the Similipal forest area.
Attack Linked To Past Poaching Arrests?
The victim, Bharat Shatrusal, was reportedly working as a Sabuja Bahini member in the Podadiha forest region. According to the allegation, over four poachers from the same village were apprehended during a hunting operation in Similipal some seven months ago. Bharat had participated in the anti-poaching drive. The poachers allegedly issued death threats to him after securing bail.
Assailants Used Electrical Tester Wire
On Sunday night, three poachers reportedly arrived at Bharat’s house and attacked him using a tester. Bharat sustained serious injuries and was initially rushed to Udala Medical. However, due to his critical condition, he was later shifted to Baripada for further treatment. After the attack, the accused poachers fled from the scene.
Victim Recalls Sudden Confrontation
Speaking about the incident, Bharat Shatrusal said, “Their house was raided for poaching, and they were arrested. They had threatened me earlier as well that once they got out of jail, they would attack me. I had been avoiding them since their bail, but we came face to face out of the blue, and they attacked me, following which we had a physical brawl. One of them stabbed me with a tester in the process and injured me.”
Police Yet To Issue Statement
Police have launched an investigation into the incident, though no official response was received regarding the assault or action taken against the accused.
