Bhubaneswar, Sep 11: The Odisha Special Task Force (STF) has stepped up its probe into the rescue of five orangutans in Balasore, detaining three suspects from a private hotel in West Bengal and questioning them over the animals’ illegal movement into the state.

The three suspects were reportedly picked up by STF officials from a private hotel in Digha, West Bengal, and brought in for questioning. Investigators are repeatedly questioning them to determine how the five orangutans were brought to Odisha and to establish the people involved in their transportation.

The rescued orangutans were found in a forest area in Bhograi block of Balasore district before being shifted to Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar.

As part of the investigation, the STF is also examining a black luxury car reportedly found in connection with the hotel owner. Investigators are looking into whether the vehicle was used in the movement of the orangutans.

The probe is focused on establishing the origin of the five animals, the route through which they were brought to Odisha, who transported them and the purpose for which they were being moved.

Odisha DGP Binayatosh Mishra has directed the STF to register a formal case over the rescue and alleged trafficking of the orangutans.

He said the full details would emerge once the investigation progresses.