Rayagada, Sep 1: In a major breakthrough against wildlife trafficking, a joint operation by the Mumbai Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and forest officials led to the seizure of two leopard skins and the arrest of four individuals near Kolnara, Rayagada district, Odisha.

Acting on a tip-off, the DRI team conducted raids at multiple locations along National Highway 326, where the suspects were allegedly attempting to sell the illegal wildlife products. The operation culminated in the arrest of Prabhakar Nayak and Raj Kumar Gupta from Nagpur, Maharashtra, along with Mahesh Huika from Machkhunti and Anjar Singh alias Jisaya Gamango from Putasing block in Gunupur subdivision.

The leopard skins, believed to be from animals aged between 5 to 7 years, were recovered during the sting operation. The accused were handed over to the Rayagada Forest Range officials on August 31, 2025, for further legal proceedings.

Authorities are investigating the origin of the skins, which are suspected to have been smuggled from Gajapati district to Maharashtra.

This incident highlights the ongoing threat to endangered species and the need for vigilant enforcement against poaching and illegal wildlife trade.