Nuapada, Sept. 22 (UDN): The Forest Wing of Odisha Vigilance has arrested a suspected hunter and seized a leopard skin during a raid in Nuapada district, officials said on Tuesday.
The action was carried out in the Udyanbandh Forest Range under Khariar Forest Division following information about illegal wildlife activity.
Leopard Skin Seized
Acting on the input, a Vigilance team conducted a surprise raid and recovered one leopard skin belonging to Panthera pardus from the spot.
The operation led to the detection of a wildlife offence, following which the suspect was taken into custody.
Case Registered Under Wildlife Act
The arrested accused has been identified as Inyat Alli, a resident of Kumuntimunda village under Komna police station in Nuapada district.
Officials said he was arrested for allegedly violating Section 9 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, with the offence punishable under Section 51 of the Act.
Further investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the possession of the leopard skin and determine whether others were involved.