Baripada: In a significant breakthrough, the Forest Department arrested two poachers with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled trail cameras in the Similipal forest under Podadiha Wildlife Range, Mayurbhanj district.
The accused have been identified as Mara Sing alias Hagal (50), a resident of Katuria (Maharasahi), and Gobinda Soren alias Raga (35), a resident of Basudhar — both from Mayurbhanj.
According to Samrat Gowda, Deputy Director (South), Similipal Reserve Forest, a group of armed poachers was detected by AI-powered Trailguard cameras while attempting to enter the Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary.
Acting swiftly, forest officials from Podadiha and Bhanjabasa Wildlife Ranges, along with personnel from the Similipal Tiger Protection Force (STPF), launched an extensive search operation in the identified area.
“Due to prompt and coordinated action, two poachers were apprehended on the spot, while five others managed to flee,” Gowda said.
Two loaded guns, one bow, and seven arrows were recovered from the accused. Both were produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court in Baripada after completion of legal formalities.
Forest officials confirmed that efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest the absconding poachers.
An investigation is underway.
