Basta, May 25: A dead deer was recovered from the roadside near Nidhipanda Chhak along National Highway-60, triggering suspicion of illegal wildlife smuggling in the area.

According to reports, locals spotted the carcass lying inside a bush beside the highway and immediately alerted authorities. Blood was reportedly seen oozing from the animal’s mouth, raising suspicion over the circumstances surrounding its death.

What has further intensified the mystery is that there are no major forests or known wildlife habitats in and around the Nidhipanda area. Residents claimed that wild animals are rarely seen in the locality, leading to suspicion that the deer might have been illegally transported before being dumped near the highway.

Locals suspect that smugglers may have abandoned the animal out of fear during possible police checking or patrolling operations on the highway.

As news spread, a large crowd gathered at the spot after seeing the spotted deer lying by the roadside.

Police from Haladipada outpost under Basta police limits and officials of the Forest Department reached the scene after being informed about the incident.

Forest officials have launched an investigation into the matter. Authorities said the exact cause behind the deer’s death and the suspected smuggling angle would become clear only after the post-mortem examination of the animal.