Chilika: Acting on a tip-off, forest department officials Monday arrested two persons from Soran area near largest brackish water lagoon Chilika in Khurda district for allegedly poaching migratory birds.
The two bird poachers were held while they were hunting the winged feathered guests. The team also seized flesh of birds from their possession. The accused poachers have been identified as Bikash Jena and Santosh Behera.
Acting on a tip-off about the illegal activity, forest department officials conducted raids in the area and nabbed the duo. Officials seized flesh of migratory birds weighing around 2 kilograms and hunting weapons and instruments were also seized from their possession.
A case has been registered against him and further investigation into the incident is underway, the officials said.
Notably, as many as 30 migratory bird carcasses were seized from two poachers who were later arrested November 12.
According to official sources, 20 anti-poaching camps, including two mobile parties, have been set up in Chilika to ensure the safe stay of the migratory birds, who spend the entire winter in its waters.
These camps include 11 at Tangi, three each at Satpada and Balugaon and two at Rambha. Despite that, such an incident could not be avoided which demands stricter anti-poaching camps in the area.
Moreover, the forest officials are taking routine patrolling to curb illegal poaching in the area.
“20 anti-poaching camps have been set up. Mangaljodi and Bhushandpur are among the other places where wildlife officials would camp to keep a check on poachers,” said Chilika divisional forest officer.
Officials expected the rise in the number of the feathered guests by December and said a water mobile unit would also be deployed to keep an eye on poachers who use guns as well as poison balls to kill birds.
“We are ready to welcome them and to ensure a pleasant stay for them without the fear of being stalked by poachers,” the DFO said.
Last year, the authorities had set up 18 anti-poaching camps in the lake area but cases of poaching were still reported.