Bhubaneswar, January 21: In a significant operation, the Forest Department under the South Ghumusar Division arrested four poachers for illegally possessing firearms and animal parts in Budhamb Gram under Badagada Forest Range. The poachers were caught following a surprise raid led by Ranger Anjan Kumar Nayak.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Subuddhi Mandal, Ayyam Rait, Yakub Sabar, and Buda Sabar, all residents of Budhamb. They were apprehended for their involvement in poaching activities, with evidence of illegal hunting and animal body parts found in their possession.

During the raid, authorities seized three country-made guns and snares used for trapping animals. The accused have been charged and are currently being forwarded to the court for further legal proceedings.

This action highlights the vigilance of the Forest Department in cracking down on illegal hunting activities in the region, as part of their ongoing efforts to safeguard wildlife in Odisha’s protected forest areas.