Baripada: Two persons have been taken into custody in connection with a criminal case involving violations of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, following the recovery of illegal firearms in the Similipal South Wildlife Division of Mayurbhanj district.
According to a press note issued by the Deputy Director, Similipal South Wildlife Division, Baripada on Saturday the action was taken in compliance with order issued by the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), Baripada.
The accused have been identified as Chhale Ho (23) and Sukra Ho (32), both residents of Jadidar village under Khunta police station limits in Mayurbhanj district. They were taken on remand for the purpose of investigation in the case.
During the course of the remand, two SBML guns were recovered from the crime spot based on the disclosure made by accused Chhale Ho. Forest officials stated that the recovered firearms are directly linked to the case and form crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.
On the basis of prima facie evidence, it has been ascertained that both accused have violated provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Consequently, they have been produced before the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Baripada, and forwarded for judicial custody.
Officials of the Similipal South Wildlife Division said further investigation is in progress to ascertain the full extent of the offence and any possible involvement of others.
