Special Task Force (STF) apprehended two individuals from Odisha’s Kalahandi district for smuggling leopard skin.
The accused were identified as Chakra Benal (45) hailing from Village Talbora and Purna Chandra (39) hailing from Village Patang Pada of the district.
STF conducted a raid near Narla Railway Station in Kalahandi district based on reliable sources on the suspicion or possession or dealing of wildlife criminals.
“During the search one leopard skin along with other incriminating materials were recovered from their possession.” Inspector General (IG) of Odisha STF, JN Pankaj said.
According to the official the accused could not provide any authority in support of the possession of the leopard skin.
Both the individuals were arrested and a case was lodged against them.
“We have registered a case in this connection under sections 379/411/120(B) IPC r/w Section 51 of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972,” said the official.
The aforementioned skin would be sent to Director WII, Dehradun, Uttarakhand for a biological examination, according to the IG of Odisha STF added.
The matter is being currently investigated
