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Orangutans, critically endangered species not found in India, seen in Odisha; wildlife trafficking suspected
On Tuesday, forest personnel rescued five orangutans in Odisha's Bichitrapur forest after villagers spotted the animals, which are not indigenous to India.
Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia suspects an international smuggling racket released the apes, as orangutans are native to Southeast Asia and valued at 20-25 lakh rupees internationally.
The State Government urged the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau to launch a probe, with officials reviewing airport, railway, and port CCTV footage while a veterinary team from Simlipal National Park monitors the animals' health.
Balasore DFO Pratik Praksh Indalkar confirmed the animals are healthy and eating, with plans to transfer them to Nandan Kanan Zoo in Bhubaneswar after observation.
Regional Chief Conservator of Forests Prakash Chand Gogineni is intensifying surveillance to determine if other orangutans remain in the forest, though permanent housing plans remain undecided.
After finding five orangutans in the jungle in Baleshwar, Odisha, the biggest question is how did these animals found in South-East Asia reach India. The forest department has rescued them and the reason for their arrival is being investigated.