Siliguri, 30th May: In an operation led by Ranger Deepak Rasaily and his team from the Sukna Forest Department Squad-1, a man identified as Rakesh Barik (25) was apprehended for attempting to traffic deer antlers. Acting on a tip-off, the Forest Department launched the operation in the Milan More Bazar area.
During a search based on suspicion, a small quantity of deer antlers, intended for sale in the market, was found in Rakesh’s possession. The accused was taken into custody, and further interrogation led to the recovery of two additional antlers from a location revealed by Rakesh.
The Sukna Forest Department Squad-1 indicated the presence of a larger wildlife trafficking network involved in the illegal trade of animal carcasses. Ranger Deepak Rasaily commended his team’s success in the operation. The accused, Rakesh Barik, was presented before the Siliguri court today. Meanwhile, the Sukna Squad is conducting further investigations into the matter.