Forest officials at Similipal Tiger Reserve arrested an armed poacher from the Baldiha area, officials confirmed on Monday.

The accused, a resident of Kuliana in Mayurbhanj district, was apprehended on Sunday during a routine patrol by forest personnel. Authorities have not disclosed the specifics of the weapons or materials seized from him.

Following his arrest, he was presented before the Chief Judicial Magistrate in Baripada on Monday. His bail plea was rejected, and he was sent to judicial custody.

Similipal Tiger Reserve, one of India’s key wildlife sanctuaries, has witnessed several poaching incidents in recent years. Forest officials have intensified surveillance and anti-poaching measures to protect its rich biodiversity, including endangered species like the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against poachers to safeguard wildlife in the reserve. Further investigations are underway.