Baripada, Dec 9: Poaching activity has resurfaced in Similipal, but swift action by forest authorities led to the arrest of two suspected poachers this morning. AI-enabled cameras captured images of the suspects inside the Kendumundi Range of the Similipal North Wildlife Division on November 21, prompting targeted enforcement.

Acting on the footage, teams raided the homes of the accused, identified as Bhagirathi Buliuli and Budhuram Kandanakel of Jalda village, under Karanjia police station limits. During the operation, authorities seized four bows, ten arrows, a knife, 160 snares, and approximately 1.7 kilograms of dried bushmeat, reportedly from a wild pig.

The accused were taken to the Similipal North Wildlife Division office in Jashipur for interrogation. Forest officials stated that the AI camera network flagged the duo’s entry and movements in the protected area, allowing for rapid and targeted action.

Officials added that investigations are ongoing to identify possible accomplices, bushmeat supply chains, and broader poaching networks operating around the reserve. Authorities emphasised that combining AI surveillance with rapid field response has become central to deterring wildlife crimes in Similipal, with additional raids possible based on leads from the ongoing inquiry.