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Explosives Fueling Wildlife Hunts in Tiger Reserve
4 Oct
Summary
- Potash bombs are a new, disturbing tool for hunting wildlife.
- Two men arrested with wild boar carcass and 13 live bombs.
- Explosives pose danger to wildlife, livestock, and patrol teams.
Explosives have emerged as a troubling new method for wildlife hunting around the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (USTR). On September 29, 2026, anti-poaching units apprehended two individuals from Odisha's Nabarangpur district in the Chikhlapathi area. The men were found processing a wild boar carcass, killed using explosives.
During the operation, forest officials seized 13 live potash bombs and various hunting tools. The suspects were remanded to judicial custody, and a forest offense was registered. Investigators are also examining a third individual suspected of supplying explosive materials, who received a notice under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita due to health reasons.
This case highlights USTR's growing concern that potash bombs are part of a systematic hunting practice. Intelligence indicates over 20 individuals have previously been detained for similar offenses. A prior incident revealed explosive materials alongside sloth bear claws, suggesting the use of locally sourced explosives.
Authorities are now investigating a potentially larger network for the procurement and storage of these explosives. The USTR plans to pursue charges under the Explosive Substances Act alongside wildlife protection laws. The use of such devices presents indiscriminate dangers, risking explosions that could harm wildlife, livestock, and even patrol teams.
