Bhubaneswar: In a commendable act of vigilance and community action, two poachers were apprehended by local residents yesterday as they attempted to enter the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district. The culprits were promptly handed over to the Forest department for further action.
According to official sources, the two accused were intercepted by vigilant locals along with their firearms and several other incriminating tools commonly used for poaching activities. Following their capture, the duo was swiftly forwarded to a court in Baripada to face legal proceedings.
Susanta Nanda, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), took to social media to commend the proactive stance of the villagers. In a post on his personal handle, he stated, “Now the villagers are up against the criminals trying to dent their Pride — The Simlipal Tiger Reserve. Thrilled to share that villagers of Kendua village bordering Similipal, have nabbed 2 accused with 2 loaded guns last night while entering into Similipal for poaching. Kudos”