Did Security Forces Successfully Thwart a Rhino Poaching Attempt in Assam’s Kaziranga?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable operation, security forces in Assam's Kaziranga National Park thwarted a rhino poaching attempt, leading to the arrest of three suspects. This incident highlights the ongoing battle against wildlife crime in India, emphasizing the significance of conservation efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Effective collaboration among local police and forest authorities is crucial in combating poaching.
- The arrest of poachers highlights the ongoing threat to wildlife.
- Advanced intelligence and surveillance are essential in anti-poaching operations.
- Public awareness and involvement play a significant role in wildlife conservation.
- Kaziranga remains a critical site for biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Guwahati, Oct 16 (NationPress) On Thursday, vigilant security forces at Assam’s Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) successfully thwarted an attempt to poach rhinos, leading to the arrest of three individuals, as reported by officials.
KNPTR Director Sonali Ghosh stated that a collaborative operation, involving the Biswanath Police alongside Majuli and Lakhimpur Police, was conducted under the leadership of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) (Crime), Biswanath, and ASP (HQ).
The authorities apprehended three suspected armed poachers identified as Muhikanta Pegu (24), Manuj Pathari (38), and Kiran Pegu (41).
According to Ghosh, acting on information provided by the detained suspects, law enforcement recovered a .303 rifle and nine 70 mm 12-bore cartridges from the residence of Debajit Pegu in New Dandi village, Biswanath district. Debajit Pegu is currently wanted.
An investigation is underway, supervised by ASP (Crime), Biswanath.
In an unrelated incident on October 15, a suspected poacher was fatally shot during a skirmish with forest guards within KNPTR, recognized as India’s seventh UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Officials from the National Park noted that, following intelligence reports regarding armed poachers' movements in the area, all anti-poaching units were activated to conduct searches and secure potential escape routes.
A river patrol team from Burapahar Range observed a suspicious light in Maite Tapu and detected the presence of armed poachers.
Upon being ordered to halt, the poachers reacted violently, firing upon the forest guards, who responded with controlled fire in self-defense.
Additional forest personnel were dispatched to the scene, and during an exhaustive search, the body of the deceased poacher was found. Ongoing efforts are being made to locate the accomplices who fled.
The identity of the slain poacher remains unknown. KNPTR officials confirmed that a .303 rifle and a handbag were recovered from the location.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the ongoing challenges faced in conservation efforts, particularly in regions like Kaziranga. The swift action taken by security forces underscores the importance of vigilance and collaboration in combating poaching, an issue that poses a serious threat to biodiversity. The nation stands united in support of these efforts.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kaziranga National Park known for?
Kaziranga National Park is renowned for its population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How frequently do poaching incidents occur in Kaziranga?
Poaching incidents, although significantly reduced due to increased security measures, still occur occasionally in Kaziranga.
What measures are taken to prevent poaching in Kaziranga?
Authorities conduct regular patrols, utilize intelligence reports, and collaborate with local police to strengthen anti-poaching efforts in the park.
What penalties do poachers face in India?
Poachers in India can face severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines, under the Wildlife Protection Act.
How can the public help in wildlife conservation?
The public can support wildlife conservation by reporting suspicious activities, donating to wildlife charities, and promoting awareness of conservation issues.
