10 Arrested in Connection with Forester’s Murder in Similipal Sanctuary

Mayurbhanj: Ten individuals have been arrested by the Odisha police in connection with the murder of forester Mathi Hansdah in Similipal Sanctuary, Mayurbhanj district.

The suspects have been identified as Turi Kandeyan (30), Ramai Kandeyan (61), Mora Ho (43), Manikram Kandeyan (43), Gopabandhu Kandeyan (32), Dillip Kandeyan (25), Ramsingh Gundua (34), Singa Ho (32), Gameya Ho (25), and Champai Ho (26). All of them are residents of Edelbeda village under Thakurmunda police station.

The police seized various items from the arrested individuals, including two country-made rifles, one bamboo stick, two bows, three arrows, two axes, one woollen cap, one pink-coloured napkin, and an iron rod for loading gunpowder. The arrested individuals are facing multiple charges under different sections of the Indian Penal Code, Wildlife Protection Act, and Arms Act.

The police officer stated that their investigation is ongoing to determine if any other person was involved in the forester’s killing. Additionally, a special team has been formed to confiscate illegal weapons from the residents of Edelbeda, Kasibeda, Saleibeda, and other neighbouring villages near Similipal sanctuary.

Forester Mathi Hansdah was shot dead by poachers while conducting a patrol in the Undumundi-Barahakumuda section of Similipal sanctuary on the night of June 16 and 17.