The Forest Department in Balangir successfully seized a leopard skin and arrested the accused, Kailash Kathar, from Jamuna Pali village under the Khaprakhol block. Acting on a tip-off regarding the illegal sale of leopard skin to other states, Khaprakhol Forester Sudhir Kumar Jena alerted Deputy Ranger Sunil Kumar Mishra, leading to a coordinated raid.
On Friday, a team of forest officials, led by Jena and Mishra, conducted a surprise raid at Kathar’s residence. The operation involved four vehicles and several forest guards. During the raid, a leopard skin measuring 4 feet 8 inches long and 1 foot 8 inches wide was confiscated. Kailash Kathar was taken into custody and brought to Khaprakhol for further investigation.
The Forest Department stated that Kathar will be forwarded to court on Saturday. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of wildlife poaching in the Maoist-affected region and underscores the department’s firm commitment to curbing such illegal activities.
