Bargarh, Jan 5: The Special Task Force (STF) of Odisha Police recovered a live pangolin and arrested a wildlife smuggler following a raid at Negipali in Bheden Road in Bargarh district on Tuesday.

Acting on a tip-off, the STF team busted a pangolin deal and arrested Jagat Thela of Negipalli village under Bheden police limits in Baragarh.

Sources said the joint team conducted a raid on the roadside near Khansumen Devi temple in Negipalli village while the deal was underway. The team of forest officials arrested the wildlife criminal from the spot. The live pangolin and other incriminating articles were recovered from his possession.

Further investigation is underway.