In a tense confrontation on May 21, 2025, a suspected poacher was killed in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park during a firefight with forest guards in the Agaratoli Range, a critical habitat for rhinos, elephants, and rare deer species. The incident, reported by the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, underscores the ongoing battle against illegal wildlife poaching in one of India’s most biodiverse regions.
According to Divisional Forest Officer Arun Vignesh, the operation began after authorities detected a group of three unidentified men in the restricted Agaratoli Range on Wednesday morning. As the park was closed to outsiders, anti-poaching teams launched an immediate search. When confronted, the intruders opened fire on the forest guards, who returned fire, forcing the group to flee. A subsequent search revealed one injured suspect, who was unconscious and later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The body was sent for a postmortem, but the individual carried no identification, and officials are still working to confirm his identity.
Kaziranga National Park Director Sonali Ghosh explained that intelligence about armed poachers prompted the activation of anti-poaching camps and commando action groups, who blocked all exit routes to secure the area. Authorities recovered rifles and other weapons, confirming the group’s intent to poach. “They entered the park with rifles and other weapons, so it is clear they were poachers,” Vignesh stated, adding that investigations are underway to determine if any wildlife was harmed.
Officials suspect additional poachers may still be hiding within the park, and anti-poaching teams continue their search. The Agaratoli Range, known for its large populations of rhinos, elephants, and specialized deer, remains a prime target for poachers despite heightened security measures. Assam has made strides in reducing poaching in recent years through stricter laws and enhanced enforcement, but incidents like this highlight the persistent threat to the region’s wildlife.
The operation reflects the dedication of Kaziranga’s forest guards to protect its iconic species, even at great personal risk. Authorities urge the public to report suspicious activities to support conservation efforts, as the fight to preserve Assam’s biodiversity continues.
Reference: Purkayastha, B. K. (2025, May 21). Assam: Suspected poacher killed in Kaziranga in crossfire with forest guards. Hindustan Times.
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