Nayagarh, Ap 16: Forest officials in Nayagarh district arrested a woman and her son for their alleged involvement in illegal wildlife trafficking. Jyotsna Rani Mallik and her son, Pradeep Mallik, were found in possession of a leopard skin and 164 pangolin scales, raising concerns over active poaching networks in the region.
Acting on intelligence, the Forest Department conducted a raid at the Kujamendi Beat House area under Daspalla Range, apprehending the duo from Kujamendi village. Both have been forwarded to court following their arrest.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Debarchan Behera said, “A leopard skin and 164 pangolin scales have been seized. One more person is involved in the case and is currently absconding. Efforts are underway to apprehend him.”
Officials noted that the leopard skin is believed to have originated from the Phulbani region, while the pangolin scales were allegedly collected after killing the endangered animal in the Daspalla area. The scale of the seizure indicates possible links to a larger, organized wildlife trafficking network.
Authorities are continuing search operations to apprehend the third suspect. The incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of endangered species and underscores the need for sustained vigilance to protect India’s wildlife from illegal trade.
