By Biswanath Dash
BHUBANESWAR: On the basis of reliable information, a team of STF conducted raid with thehelp of Tangi Forest Officials today i.e. on 23.11.2022 morning near Brahmandi Chhak beside NH-16 under Tangi PS Dist. Khordha regarding dealing/possession of wildlife products by wildlife criminals, as a result of which one wildlife criminals namely Jayakrushna Tarai S/o. Rohita Tarai of Ghumusharpadar PO: Ghhiakhala PS. Balugaon Dist. Khordha was apprehended.
During search one Live Pangolin and other incriminating materials were recovered from his possession. The accused person could not produce any authority in support of possession of possession of such live Pangolin, for which he has been arrested and will be forwarded to the court of JMFC, Tangi. In this connection STF PS Case No.27 dated 23.11.2022 U/s 379/411/120(B) IPC r/w. Sec.51 of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 was registered.
The Live Pangolin handed over to DFO , Khordha for safe custody. Investigation is going on.The Indian pangolin (Maniscrassicaudata), also called thick-tailed pangolin, scaly anteater and bajrakapta ‘ବଜ୍ରକାପ୍ତା’ in Odia is a solitary, shy, slow-moving, nocturnal mammal. It is a schedule-I protected animal under Wild Life Protection act, 1972. Schedule I provides absolute protection – offences under these are prescribed for the highest penalties.
