Bhubaneswar: The Forest Department officials arrested five persons from three villages in connection with the killing of a bear in the Mathili area of Malkangiri district.
After a prolonged investigation and intensive search operations, the accused have been booked under the Wildlife Protection Act. The department is continuing its probe to ascertain the involvement of more people in the incident.
It is pertinent to mention that the bear was rescued in a severely injured condition after being allegedly attacked by a mob with stones and sharp weapons in Malkangiri district. The incident occurred near Daiguda Chhak under the Mathili forest range.
According to reports, the bear was attacked by locals for nearly four hours before being rescued in a critical state and brought to the Mathili Forest Office for treatment, where it succumbed to its injuries.
Following the discovery, forest officials and wildlife experts visited the spot and launched a detailed investigation. Initially, the cause of the bear’s death was suspicious. However, through local inquiries, witness statements, and evidence collected from the site, the involvement of some villagers came to light. A special team of the Forest Department conducted continuous raids and interrogations, which led to the arrest of the five persons. The accused are suspected of attacking and killing the bear. Some materials used in the crime have also been seized.
The Forest Department has taken a serious view of the incident and has assured strict action against those involved in wildlife crime.
