Berhampur, June 19 (UDN): Superintendent of Police (SP), Berhampur, Dr. Saravana Vivek M, has requested the Director General & Inspector General of Police (DG & IG), CID-Crime Branch, Odisha, to transfer the investigation of a leopard skin smuggling case to the specialized Wildlife Crime Cell.
The case was registered at Jarada Police Station in Ganjam district following the arrest of two accused persons on June 6. During the operation, police seized two leopard skins, two live hand bombs, and a sword from the possession of the accused.
In his communication to the Crime Branch headquarters, the SP highlighted the seriousness of the wildlife offence and the recovery of explosives and weapons, indicating possible links to organized criminal activity. Considering the specialized nature of wildlife crime investigations, he recommended that the Wildlife Crime Cell take over the case for a comprehensive probe.
The SP further stated that the specialized unit would be better equipped to investigate the wildlife trafficking network, identify possible interstate or inter-district links, and ensure effective prosecution of those involved. He has requested the Wildlife Crime Cell to conduct further investigation and submit the prosecution papers before the competent court.
The seizure of leopard skins has raised concerns over illegal wildlife trade in the region, prompting authorities to intensify efforts against poaching and trafficking of protected wildlife species.
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