Baripada, Feb 20: A major poaching attempt was thwarted inside Similipal National Park on Friday after artificial intelligence-enabled surveillance cameras detected the movement of armed intruders, triggering a swift response from forest officials.

Officials said a group of poachers entered the sanctuary late at night, but their movements were captured by AI-based cameras installed across sensitive forest zones. The system generated real-time alerts, enabling authorities to immediately mobilise personnel and prevent the suspected hunting attempt.

A 24-hour combing operation was launched by the Similipal South Division. As forest teams tightened surveillance and cordoned off key areas, 39 poachers surrendered.

The accused handed over nine guns, a large quantity of gunpowder, over 20 bows and arrows, and several other weapons. Officials said the timely technological intervention and coordinated strategy averted what could have been a large-scale poaching incident in the tiger reserve.

The operation involved staff from three forest ranges along with three armed personnel from the Special Tiger Protection Force. Authorities credited continuous surveillance, intelligence inputs and coordinated ground action for compelling the group to surrender voluntarily.

The accused hail from Ambikadeipur, Mahalisahi, Lukuida, Matakmatla, Jitusahi, Khaladi and Langadi villages under Udala police station limits.

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A case has been registered at the Jenabil Wildlife Range, and an investigation is underway. Officials said an FIR will also be lodged at the police station for alleged violations under the Arms Act.