There seems to be no halt in the poaching of tuskers in Athagarh forests. In a week, the poachers were successful in killing two tuskers and stealing their tusks from Badamba forest range areas.
In this sensitive case, the department finished its task by suspending two forest guards, a forester and by arresting a common man. But no inquiry was made to nab the poachers or seize the tusks.
locals alleged that some unscrupulous forest officials are hand in glove with the mafia in the event for which they sweep the matter under the carpet.
Badamba Ranger Govinda Ratha also allegedly remained absent frequently in the headquarters. The media was also kept in dark for the last two years about the activities.
As per report, the poachers were successful in stealing the tusks of the two elephants by firing at them from the Badamba Range. One carcass was spotted from Haladiaseni reserve forest on February 20 and the other from Kalimaha reserve forest, six days later.
Asked, RCCF Angul Sudarsan Panda said he has written to the Crime Branch to start an inquiry into the matter soon.