Days after tiger enters Debrigarh, 2 poachers held near sanctuary

The Odisha Forest Department arrested two poachers near Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh after a tiger was recorded entering the protected forest area. Officials from the forest department detained the suspects near the sanctuary borders in the state of Odisha. The forest department said the arrests followed the sighting of a tiger that recently moved into the habitat. Officials reported seizing snares and hunting equipment from the men, who allegedly intended to target wildlife within the sanctuary limits. The forest department stated that the safety of the tiger is a priority, leading to the deployment of additional patrol teams. “We have intensified patrolling in the fringe areas to ensure the safety of the tiger and other animals,” the forest department stated. Officials confirmed that the suspects were booked under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The forest department said the individuals are being questioned to uncover potential links to illegal wildlife trade networks. An investigation remains active to ensure no other traps are set, and the department said the tiger is being monitored via camera traps to track its movement.