Two Poachers Arrested in Similipal Sanctuary, 5 Guns Seized

Baripada: In its continuing efforts to make Similipal Sanctuary and its adjoining areas free of poachers, Mayurbhanj police on Tuesday arrested two poachers. Two country-made guns, 3 air guns, and Rs 2.95 lakh, and two mobile phones were seized from the possession of the arrested persons.

The poachers were nabbed during police raids at Kuamara, Sayukula, and Hatnuaga under Khunta police limits on July 18. The weapons were seized from Sayukula.

The two arrested accused were Santonu Sahu (52) and Ashwini Kumar Dey (50).

According to police sources, the arrested duo was involved in wildlife hunting and smuggling. A fraud case is pending against Santonu at the Bhanjpur police station.

The accused were booked for violation of wildlife laws and poaching. They have been sent to judicial custody.