STF nabs two ivory traders, 5kg elephant tusks seized

In a major crackdown on illegal wildlife trade, the Special Task Force (STF) of Odisha Police on Friday apprehended two ivory traders while they were attempting to sell elephant tusks. The arrests were made during a covert operation in the Athamallik area of Angul district.

The accused have been identified as Chandan Mahapatra and Sarat Khatei, both residents of Athamallik. Acting on intelligence inputs, STF officials intercepted the duo during a deal and recovered two pieces of elephant tusks, weighing approximately 5 kilograms.

According to preliminary investigations, the accused had planned to sell the tusks for around Rs 5 lakh. The STF operation foiled the deal just in time and took both individuals into custody.

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Officials stated that further investigation is underway to determine the source of the ivory. Authorities are probing whether the tusks were obtained from a poached elephant and, if so, when and where the killing took place. The origin of the ivory and possible links to a larger poaching or smuggling network are also being examined.

The seizure has once again highlighted the ongoing threat of illegal wildlife trafficking in the region, despite strong laws under the Wildlife Protection Act. STF officials reaffirmed their commitment to curbing such activities and ensuring strict action against offenders.