Rhino killed by poachers in Tezpur national park, horn taken away; Forest Minister seeks report

Tezpur: One rhinoceros was killed and its horn was taken away by poachers in Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, following which Assam Forest Minister Pramila Rani Brahma sought a report from officials.

According to Forest department officials, a one horned rhino was killed by the poachers yesterday at Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park in Udalguri district.

The incident took place near Gaspara forest camp, which is about 6 km from the main office, inside the National Park.

The forest officials said they found the carcass of the rhino without its horn.

When contacted, Assam Forest Minister Pramila Rani Brahma told PTI that she has asked for a report on the incident.

"Why the officials got the information so late, is a serious issue. After hearing the firing sound, forest guards needed to respond. I have sought an immediate report on the entire issue from the officials of the Park," she added.

On possible involvement of Forest Department officials in rhino poaching, Brahma declined to comment anything.

The Minister reached the Park last night after the poaching incident.

Brahma informed that senior officials are already searching for clues inside the Park to nab the poachers.

Meanwhile, Range Officer Pranjal Baruah said a rhino poacher was arrested last night from Boralimara under Sootea police station in Sonitpur district by forest officials of Kaziranga National Park's Northern Range.