Baripada: In a significant breakthrough against wildlife poaching, seven absconding poachers from Mayurbhanj district surrendered before forest officials of Similipal on Tuesday, following sustained persuasion by the Similipal Wildlife Intelligence Network (SWIN) and intervention of local leaders.
The surrender took place at the Podadiha Wildlife Range office in the presence of Labanyadeipur gram panchayat sarpanch Turam Sing and ward members. The accused also handed over five country-made guns during the process.
The arrested poachers have been identified as Champai Sing alias Tota (48), Pradhan Sing alias Jata (28), Kara Sing alias Kara (30), Kanda Gagrai alias Bula (35), Ainthu Sing alias Tupe (40), Ram Sing Gagrai alias Rama (25), and Thakura Soren alias Thakura (25). All are residents of Katuria village under Sarat police limits in Mayurbhanj district.
With the latest seizures, a total of seven guns have been recovered in connection with the case. Sarpanch Turam Sing has assured authorities that he will work with villagers to completely deweaponize the entire gram panchayat to curb poaching activities.
Similipal Deputy Director (South) Samrat Gouda lauded the coordinated efforts of SWIN staff and local representatives. “The firm commitment of our staff, coupled with support from community leaders, is making Similipal a safer place for wildlife,” he said.
The development is seen as a major step forward in strengthening community participation in wildlife conservation in Similipal Tiger Reserve, which has often faced challenges of poaching and illegal hunting.
