Golaghat (Assam), 15 October (HS): An armed poacher was killed in an encounter with forest department officials at Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Authorities seized a suspicious .303 rifle and a handbag from the site.

Following intelligence on the movement of armed poachers in the park, all anti-poaching camps were immediately put on high alert. Teams were instructed to thoroughly search the park and secure all exit routes.

The patrolling team of Budhapahar Range spotted a suspicious light near Maite Island around 2:50 am on Wednesday. Upon investigation, the team detected the presence of a group of armed poachers. When asked to stop and identify themselves, the poachers opened fire, prompting the team to respond with controlled firing in self-defense.

Once the situation was under control, additional personnel from headquarters assisted in a thorough search of the area. During the operation, officials confirmed that one unknown poacher had been killed. Efforts to capture the remaining accomplices have intensified in the area.

Recovered items include a suspicious .303 rifle and a handbag. Park authorities reiterated their commitment to wildlife protection and urged vigilance against poaching activities.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash