Baripada, Feb 20: As many as 39 poachers surrendered following a 24-hour combing operation inside the Similipal National Park after their movement was detected by AI-enabled surveillance cameras, officials said on Friday.

According to forest department sources, an armed group had entered the park on Thursday night. Real-time alerts generated by AI cameras enabled authorities to swiftly mobilize teams for a joint operation.

The operation, led by officials of the Similipal South Division, resulted in the surrender of 39 individuals. Security personnel seized nine guns, a substantial quantity of gunpowder, over 20 bows and arrows, and other lethal weapons from their possession.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused hail from Ambikadeipur, Mahalisahi, Lukuidha, Matkamattala, Jitusahi, Khaladi and Langadi villages under the Udala police limits.

A case has been registered at the Jenabil Wildlife Range, and further investigation is underway. Officials said cases under relevant provisions of the Arms Act are also likely to be filed.

Three range officials and three teams of the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) took part in the operation. Authorities of the Similipal Tiger Reserve said the surrender was made possible due to real-time detection, coordinated intelligence inputs and prompt action by enforcement teams.