Bhubaneswar, September 10:Odisha Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia has warned of strict action against those involved in the alleged illegal trafficking of orangutans.
The minister said a letter has been sent to the Central Zoo Authority for necessary legal and administrative action. A specialised team will visit Odisha to assess the environmental conditions, while DNA tests will be conducted to determine the origin of the animals through a joint effort of the Centre and state government.
Five orangutans have been kept in quarantine at Nandankanan Zoological Park, where veterinarians are closely monitoring their health. They are being fed every two hours and kept in an air-conditioned enclosure.
One young orangutan, which developed a mild fever, has shown improvement, officials said.
The investigation involves Odisha Police, the Forest Department, STF and authorities in West Bengal. Officials are also questioning people linked to a suspicious vehicle allegedly used in the transit of the animals. Further action is expected after the DNA test results.
