Thakurmunda: Forest officials seized 123 kg of sambar meat and arrested four poachers in the Thakurmunda wildlife range of Mayurbhanj district.
The accused have been identified as Bikram Mahali, Arjun Mahali and Sunil Mahali of Asankud Mahalisahi under Hatigoda gram panchayat, and Derega Dangil of Ranibhol village.
According to officials, the sambar was allegedly hunted in the Similipal forest March 26.
Acting on a tip-off, a team led by the assistant conservator of forests and the range officer conducted a raid.
Two poachers were intercepted while returning from the forest and venison was recovered from their possession.
One suspect managed to flee, while another was apprehended on the spot.
Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of three more persons involved in the case.
Forest officials also seized two blood-stained axes along with the meat.
A case has been registered under the Thakurmunda wildlife range.