Who Was Arrested for Wildlife Crimes Involving Elephant Tusks Valued at Rs 50 Lakh?
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Synopsis
In a significant bust, the Special Task Force of Odisha Police has apprehended a suspect involved in wildlife crimes, seizing elephant tusks valued at Rs 50 lakh. This incident highlights the ongoing battle against poaching in the region and raises concerns over the low conviction rates in wildlife crime cases.
Key Takeaways
- Arrest of Pramod Parida for wildlife crimes.
- Seizure of elephant tusks valued at Rs 50 lakh.
- Operation conducted by STF and Boudh Forest Officials.
- Investigation into the source of the tusks ongoing.
- Low conviction rates in wildlife crimes raise concerns.
Bhubaneswar, June 2 (NationPress) - The Special Task Force (STF) of Odisha Police has apprehended an individual for his suspected role in wildlife crimes and has confiscated two elephant tusks worth approximately Rs 50 lakh during a raid in the Jarda police station area of Boudh district on June 1, as reported by an official on Monday.
The suspect has been identified as Pramod Parida, 45, a resident of the Jarda locality in Boudh district.
During a press briefing on Monday, STF DIG Pinak Mishra stated: "The STF team focusing on wildlife crime received credible intelligence regarding the smuggling of a pair of elephant tusks within the Boudh forest division. Acting on this tip-off, the STF team conducted a raid and seized the tusks. We are currently interrogating the individual from whom these wildlife products were recovered. Our officials are collaborating with the forest department to trace the origin of the seized tusks and the potential buyers the accused had in mind."
The STF, in partnership with Boudh Forest Range Officials, executed the raid on the Boudh-Sonepur Road (NH-57) near Telibandha Chhak under the jurisdiction of Boudh Police Station on Sunday evening.
The detained wildlife offender, Pramod Parida, was unable to provide any legal documentation to justify his possession of the elephant tusks. Consequently, he has been handed over to the Boudh Forest Officials along with the confiscated items for necessary legal proceedings.
Reports indicate that over 6,960 poachers have been arrested in Odisha over the past decade related to 1,869 wildlife crimes. The state government has initiated measures such as anti-depredation and anti-poaching squads, alongside camps for bird conservation.
The government has also formed a joint task force to evaluate wildlife crimes and execute appropriate actions. However, it is concerning that the conviction rate in wildlife criminal cases remains below 5 percent.
Point of View
I believe that the arrest of individuals involved in wildlife crimes is a critical step toward preserving our natural heritage. However, the low conviction rates highlight the urgent need for reforms in our legal system to protect endangered species effectively. The nation must unite in its efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What wildlife crime was committed?
An individual was arrested for the possession and smuggling of elephant tusks, which are illegal wildlife products.
How much are the seized elephant tusks worth?
The elephant tusks seized by the STF are valued at approximately Rs 50 lakh.
What actions are being taken against wildlife crimes in Odisha?
The government has established anti-poaching squads and a joint task force to address wildlife crimes effectively.
What is the conviction rate for wildlife crimes in Odisha?
Reports indicate that the conviction rate in wildlife criminal cases in Odisha is less than 5 percent.
Who is Pramod Parida?
Pramod Parida is a 45-year-old resident of Jarda area in Boudh district, arrested for his involvement in wildlife crimes.
