Baripada (Mayurbhanj): The Forest Department successfully arrested a poacher in the Similipal forest area on Monday, leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled Trailguard cameras under the Thakurmunda Wildlife Range of Mayurbhanj district.
The accused has been identified as Kunja Sae (40), a resident of Keshdiha village under Mahuldiha police station.
According to Samrat Gowda, Deputy Director (South) of Similipal Reserve Forest, the AI Trailguard camera captured the poacher attempting to enter the Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary. Acting swiftly on this lead, the field staff of the Thakurmunda Wildlife Range initiated an extensive search operation. Ground intelligence further aided the investigation, leading to a raid on the suspect’s residence.
During the operation, forest officials seized multiple wildlife contraband items, including four sambar antlers, one hornbill beak, 137 bird snares, three bows, and eight arrows.
The accused was subsequently produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, following all due legal procedures.
This successful operation highlights the growing role of AI technology in wildlife protection and anti-poaching efforts.
