Bhubaneswar, Sept 10: The Odisha government has adopted a strict stance over the alleged illegal trafficking of baby orangutans rescued from a forested area in Balasore district, with Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia assuring that stringent action will be taken against everyone found involved in the case.
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The rescued baby orangutans are currently being kept at Nandankanan Zoological Park, where veterinary doctors are conducting regular health check-ups. According to the minister, all the orangutans are in good health, eating and active. They are also expected to be provided milk soon.
DNA Tests to Trace Origin
The government plans to conduct DNA tests to determine the identity of the animals, including information about their parents and the country or zoo from which they may have originated.
Officials said the DNA reports are expected to provide a clearer picture of the animals' actual source. The case is also being investigated at the international level.
Also Read: Explained: Rescued Orangutans Require High Canopy Enclosures and Specialised Diets for Survival
National Zoo Authority Consulted
The Odisha government has written to the National Zoo Authority to assess whether the state's climate and conditions are suitable for the species.
A team from the authority is expected to visit Nandankanan and assess the animals and their habitat requirements. A final decision on whether the orangutans can remain permanently at the zoo will be taken after the assessment.
Police, district administration, Forest Department and the Special Task Force (STF) are jointly investigating the suspected trafficking network.
Officials are also questioning local residents after reports that a vehicle had arrived at the spot, stayed for around 15 minutes and then left. Investigators are seeking assistance from villagers to gather information about the movement of the vehicle and those involved.
The Odisha authorities are also coordinating with the West Bengal Police and administration as part of the investigation.
Also Read: Orangutans in Odisha's forest: Black Thar spotted on CCTV; STF scans airports, railway stations & waterways
The Central and Odisha governments are working together to establish the facts behind the suspected trafficking racket. Discussions will also be held with national wildlife and animal welfare organisations before deciding the next course of action.
The government has reiterated that anyone found involved in the illegal trafficking of the endangered primates will face strict action under the law.
