Nabarangpur, May 22: The Forest Department achieved a major breakthrough in Nabarangpur after arresting two alleged inter-district wildlife traffickers who were reportedly waiting for buyers to sell a leopard skin.

Acting on a tip-off, a special team led by Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Subash Chandra Khuntia conducted a raid inside the Malbeda Reserve Forest near the inter-district border.

The operation was jointly carried out by officials of the Umerkote and Kodinga forest divisions.

Leopard Skin, Motorcycle Seized
During the raid, forest officials apprehended two accused, identified as Kunu Kumbhar and Durjya Golari from Koraput district.

According to forest officials, the duo was allegedly carrying a leopard skin and waiting for prospective customers inside the forest area.

The department seized a leopard skin measuring nearly six feet in length along with a motorcycle allegedly used in the smuggling operation.

Both accused were arrested and later produced before a local court.

Probe Underway Into Wildlife Smuggling Network
Forest officials said further investigation is underway to determine whether more persons are linked to the alleged wildlife trafficking racket operating across districts.

Officials are also trying to trace the source of the leopard skin and identify possible buyers connected to the illegal wildlife trade.

Also Read: Three Minor Girls Rescued From Alleged Human Trafficking Bid In Umerkote; Two Arrested

Deer Rescued After Entering Village Near Kuldiha
In a separate incident, forest officials rescued a deer that reportedly strayed out of the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary and entered a village near the Patana Beat House in Nilagiri Range.

Locals spotted the deer near Singiri village and informed the Forest Department.

Officials from the Nilagiri Forest Division rescued the animal and shifted it to a forest care facility for treatment.

Heat, Food Scarcity Suspected Behind Movement
Forest officials suspect the deer may have wandered out of the sanctuary either in search of food or due to extreme heat conditions.

The rescued animal is currently stable and under observation.

Officials added that two other deer had earlier strayed into nearby villages and were also rescued. At present, three rescued deer are being cared for by the Forest Department.

This story is compiled by Manisha Dhal.