Leopard Hide Trafficker Arrested in Odisha

BARIPADA: In a significant crackdown on illegal wildlife trade, forest officials in Odisha have apprehended a group involved in trafficking leopard hides. Among those arrested is Guruprasad Patra, a 41-year-old man from Paunsia village, whose mobile device contained an unsettling collection of explicit images and videos of women.

Details of the Arrest

Patra was among seven individuals arrested by the Baripada forest division across Mayurbhanj and Balasore districts. The operation, conducted two days prior, led to the seizure of three leopard hides, mobile phones, and motorcycles linked to the illegal activities.

Connections to Black Magic

Patra, who identifies as a black magic practitioner, was arrested alongside Vinod Tipiria, a 48-year-old school teacher from Kanimahuli village. According to initial investigations, the duo had been operating a black magic consultancy for several years. Reports indicate that Tipiria would attract women with promises of solutions to their personal issues, subsequently referring them to Patra in exchange for payment.

Shocking Discoveries

During the investigation, forest officials discovered over 480 explicit videos and photographs on Patra’s mobile phone. These materials are suspected to have been recorded covertly using hidden equipment. The divisional forest officer, A. Uma Mahesh, stated that this shocking finding has intensified their interest in securing a remand for further questioning.

Forensic Analysis and Next Steps

The authorities have dispatched seven mobile devices seized from the suspects to the state forensic laboratory for detailed analysis. “Depending on these findings, the case may be forwarded to local police for appropriate legal actions,” Mahesh added, emphasizing the delicate nature of this case. All seven suspects are currently in judicial custody while the forest department has requested additional time for investigative activities.

Background on Leopard Hides

Of the three leopard hides confiscated, two are from adult leopards, and one belongs to a juvenile. Investigators believe the leopards may have been killed approximately three to four months ago, with evidence suggesting that the hides were smuggled from Chhattisgarh into Mayurbhanj through Sundargarh. While it remains uncertain if the animals were poached from the Similipal Tiger Reserve, officials speculate that the hides could originate from other protected areas such as the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, Guru Ghasidas National Park, or Indravati Tiger Reserve.

Ongoing Investigations

Authorities have initiated a specialized team to search for additional parts of the leopards, including claws, fangs, and teeth, which may also have been trafficked, reflecting the broad array of operations connected to this wildlife crime.