Police Arrest Man in Rhino Horn Smuggling Case in Biswanath

In a recent operation, Behali Police arrested a 42-year-old man for possessing a rhino horn in Biswanath district. The suspect, Puniram Baguwar, claimed he was given the horn by another individual, Mira Orang, who remains at large. The police are actively pursuing leads to apprehend Orang while continuing their investigation into the illegal wildlife trade in the region. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced in combating wildlife trafficking.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 21, 2026, 15:33 IST

Crackdown on Wildlife Trafficking

Behali Police with the arrested 42-year-old accused after recovering a rhino horn (Photo: AT)

Biswanath, Sept 21: In a significant operation against the illegal wildlife trade, Behali Police apprehended a 42-year-old individual and seized a rhino horn during an operation in Biswanath district.

The suspect has been identified as Puniram Baguwar, who resides in Kachamari village, according to police reports released on Monday.

Behali Police stated that the Senior Superintendent of Police for Biswanath District received intelligence on Sunday regarding individuals suspected of transporting a rhino horn.

“On September 20, around 1:30 PM, we received information about miscreants carrying a rhino horn, prompting us to take action,” the police noted.

Following this, a team led by Officer-in-Charge Busing Bey established a checkpoint along the PWD road at Mikir Gaon.

“At approximately 2:30 PM, officers noticed two individuals approaching the checkpoint from Cherelia Bengali Gaon. Upon seeing the police, one fled into nearby fields, while the other was detained,” a police spokesperson explained.

Upon searching Baguwar, authorities discovered a rhino horn concealed in a bag he was carrying.

During questioning, Baguwar allegedly revealed that the rhino horn was handed to him by Mira Orang, also known as Mainul Ali, who lives in the same village, and that he intended to sell it.

Police then initiated a search in the forests of Cherelia village to locate Orang, but he managed to escape capture.

“We were unable to apprehend the other suspect, who is currently on the run. Our efforts to locate and arrest him continue,” the police stated.

The investigation is ongoing, and more information is expected to follow.