Pangolin Smuggling: Orissa HC Allows Bail To Accused Schoolteacher

The case pertains to smuggling of pangolin in Athagarh forest area in Odisha, where a scooter rider was apprehended. During interrogation, he had named the schoolteacher, Shyamsundar Behera, as the mastermind.  The headmaster of a primary school at Kayalapada panchayat in Tangi-Choudwar block was arrested on July 1.

Also Read: Primary School Headmaster, Mastermind Behind Pangolin Smuggling Racket In Odisha, Arrested

“Though this Court generally is not inclined to grant bail to the people, who are engaged in trafficking or hunting animal like pangolin but in the instant case, considering the submissions made and the facts and circumstances of the case, period of detention, nature of the offence, it is directed that the petitioner be released on bail on some stringent terms and conditions,” the order stated as published by Livelaw.

The state had opposed the bail plea on the ground that the petitioner was accused of smuggling an ‘extinct species’.

Also Read: Pangolin Rescued From Quarantine Centre In Odisha Tests Negative For COVID-19