Kandhamal: The Special Task Force (STF) team on Thursday seized a live pangolin on NH-59 near Jakikia village under Baliguda police limits and arrested two persons in this connection. The smugglers have been identified as Sibananda Mallick son of Gamara Mallick and Rastra Bhoi son of Late Tikka Bhoi.
On basis of reliable information, STF team conducted a raid with the help of Baliguda Forest Range officials under Baliguda Forest Division on NH-59 near Jakikia village about a deal of sale live pangolin by wildlife criminals and arrested both of them.
During the search, one live pangolin and other incriminating materials have been seized from his possession. The arrested smugglers could not produce any valid authority in support of the possession of live Pangolin and were arrested.
They have been detained and handed over to Baliguda forest officials for necessary legal action at their end. Meanwhile, the live Pangolin was also handed over to DFO, Baliguda 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 20 Leopard skins, 11 elephant tusks, 2 deer skins, 7 live pangolins and 15 kg pangolin scales and arrested 45 wild life criminals.
Ms Kalinga