Boudh, Dec 16: A leopard skin was seized, and a suspected poacher was arrested during a surprise raid by the Odisha Vigilance Forest wing at the Madhapur Forest Range under the Boudh Forest Division on Monday.

Acting on reliable information, the Vigilance team launched the operation, which led to the discovery of a wildlife offence. The accused, identified as Jaya Nayak, was apprehended on the spot and found in possession of the leopard skin. Authorities stated that Nayak has been booked under Section 9 and Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, for the illegal hunting and trade of protected wildlife species.

The seizure has highlighted the ongoing threat of wildlife poaching and the illegal trafficking of protected species in the region. Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to trace the origins of the leopard skin. Authorities are also working to determine if Nayak is connected to a larger poaching and trafficking network operating in the area.

This case has raised serious concerns about wildlife protection in Odisha, with officials vowing to continue their efforts to curb illegal wildlife trade and ensure stricter enforcement of environmental laws. The ongoing investigation is expected to yield further insights into potential criminal activities related to poaching in the state.