Balangir: The Special Task Force (STF) team on Thursday seized a live pangolin Maharapadar in Jamapalli village under Baragarh Forest Division of Balangir district and arrested one smuggler in this connection. The smuggler has been identified as Badal Baria, son of Manabodh Baria.
On basis of reliable information, STF team conducted a raid with the help of Ghess Forest Range officials conducted a raid near a field at Jamapalli village about a deal of sale live pangolin by wildlife criminal and arrested the youth.
During the search, one live pangolin and other incriminating materials have been seized from his possession. The arrested smuggler could not produce any valid authority in support of the possession of live Pangolin and was arrested.
He has been handed over to Baragarh forest officials for necessary legal action at their end. The live pangolin will be handed over to wildlife for safe custody.
It is to be noted that during last one year, special drive against the wildlife criminals/poachers have been launched. STF has seized as many as 19 leopard skins, 10 elephant tusks, two deer skins, six live pangolins and 15 kg pangolin scales and arrested 40 wild life criminals.
STF is the specialized wing of Odisha Police to curb the organized crime in the State. Wild life crimes remain the one of the focus area of STF and STF will continue its drive against the wild life crime and criminals.
Ms Kalinga