Baripada: The poaching of a melanistic tiger in Similipal has come to light, raising fresh concerns over wildlife safety in the sanctuary. Three persons have been arrested for allegedly trading the skin of the animal, which has also been seized.

Acting on reliable information about a deal involving the sale of tiger skin, forest officials of the Similipal South Division conducted a raid along the Basipitha–Bhupat road and apprehended the accused while they were negotiating the transaction.

During the operation, the team recovered the skin of a melanistic tiger, believed to be around two years old.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Gangadhar Murmu of Kusumghati village under Khunta police station, Ramdas Hembrom of Kathruma village under Kuliana police station, and Bhima Baske of Joka village under Bangiriposi police station.

Three motorcycles and two mobile phones were also seized from their possession. The accused were produced before a local court today.

Deputy Director of Similipal South Division, Sumit Kumar Kar, confirmed the incident and said further investigation is underway to ascertain the full extent of the poaching network and identify other persons involved.