Bargarh: The Special Task Force (STF) of Odisha police on Sunday arrested a wildlife criminal on charges of possessing elephant tusk in Bargarh.
The arrested accused has been identified as Ramesh Pradhan, son of Tankadhar Pradhan of Larambha block in Bolangir.
On basis of reliable information, the STF officials conducted a raid with the help of Padmapur Forest Range officials under Baragarh Forest Division near Kendubhatta, Gaisilat of Baragarh district regarding illegal possession of Elephant Tusk.
During the search, one elephant tusk and other incriminating materials were seized from his possession. Ramesh could not produce any valid authority in support of possession of Elephant Tusk, for which he has been detained and handed over to Bargarh forest officials for necessary legal action.
Investigation is on.
During last one year, Special drive against the wildlife criminals/poachers have been launched, STF has seized as many as 20 nos Leopard skin, 11 nos Elephant Tusk, 02 deer skin, 06 live pangolin and 15 kg pangolin scales and
arrested 43 wild life criminals.
Also Read: STF seizes elephant tusks in Odisha, 4 arrested
Ms Kalinga