A Correspondent, Kaziranga: A dramatic late-night encounter unfolded in Kaziranga National Park’s Eastern Range (Agaratoli) on Wednesday, after unidentified poachers launched an armed assault on frontline forest staff stationed at Balidubi Camp. The incident began around 8 p.m. when the Range Officer of the Eastern Range received credible intelligence regarding a potential attack by armed poachers. Responding swiftly, the Forest Department raised a high alert across nearby camps and mobilized reinforcements to secure the area. A joint operation involving forest personnel and local police was launched soon after. At approximately 10:30 p.m., the search team spotted suspicious movement near the Dhanbari area. When they attempted to stop and question the suspects, they came under fire. The joint team, displaying restraint, returned controlled fire in self-defense. The gun battle lasted nearly 30 minutes before the area was brought under control. Following the exchange, the team discovered one unidentified injured individual, armed with an AK-56 rifle and carrying 11 rounds of live ammunition. A subsequent search of the site yielded a .303 rifle with three live rounds, an axe, a torch, and food supplies—strong indicators of a planned poaching expedition. The injured man was rushed to Swahid Kamala Miri Civil Hospital in Bokakhat, where he was declared dead by medical staff. Efforts to track down other members of the poaching group are ongoing. The Forest Department, along with law enforcement, has intensified patrols and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the park’s wildlife and ensuring the safety of its personnel. Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains under constant threat from poachers targeting its iconic one-horned rhinoceroses. Authorities say they will continue to take firm action against any threats to the park’s security.
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