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Odisha Forester Fatally Shot During Anti-Poaching Patrol Near Satkosia Reserve

Prahlad Pradhan, a forest officer since 2009, was killed in a confrontation with poachers; four suspects have been arrested, and calls grow to arm forest guards.

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Overview

  • Prahlad Pradhan, 37, was shot and killed during a patrol in Rajmonoharpur forest, near Satkosia Tiger Reserve, early Saturday morning.
  • An eight-member Forest Department team confronted poachers after acting on a tip-off; four suspects were arrested, and a firearm was recovered.
  • Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced Rs 30 lakh ex gratia for Pradhan's family and directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to investigate the incident.
  • The incident highlights longstanding concerns over the lack of firearms and protective equipment for forest guards, with most patrolling unarmed outside major reserves.
  • This marks the latest in a series of violent attacks on Odisha's forest personnel, including two fatal shootings in Similipal Tiger Reserve in 2023.