Indonesia Moves To Repatriate 5 Baby Orangutans From Odisha As Smuggling Probe Widens

Indonesia is working with Indian authorities to facilitate the repatriation of five baby orangutans rescued from a forest in Odisha, as investigators probe a suspected international wildlife trafficking network. The animals were found on September 8 in Bichitrapur forest in Balasore district.

The three males and two females, aged around six months to one year, are currently being cared for at Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar. Preliminary observations suggest they could be Sumatran orangutans, but DNA testing is needed to establish their exact species and genetic origin. Blood sample collection has reportedly been delayed by around 10 days as the cubs recover.

Indonesia is coordinating with India’s CITES Management Authority, diplomatic missions, its National Research and Innovation Agency and other agencies to prepare for a possible return. However, experts say repatriation could involve significant scientific, legal and diplomatic challenges, including whether the animals can eventually be rehabilitated in their natural habitat.

Odisha has meanwhile formed a five member technical committee to oversee the cubs’ welfare and care. Three caretakers and doctors are monitoring them around the clock. The cubs are being fed every two hours and have been given soft toys, swings and music therapy. One has recovered from fever while two have recovered from colds.

The smuggling investigation has also intensified. The Odisha Police STF and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau have examined 55 CCTV recordings, with a black SUV, reportedly a Mahindra Thar, emerging as a key lead. Investigators are reconstructing a possible route from Digha in West Bengal to Bichitrapur. A similar vehicle was reportedly seen near a Digha hotel at 10:56 pm on September 7 and near Bichitrapur around 11:35 pm, covering about 22 km in 39 minutes.

A hotel owner in West Bengal has emerged as a person of interest, while his residence was reportedly searched. However, authorities have not established a definitive link between him and the orangutans.

The STF has registered a formal case, while investigators are examining mobile tower data, CCTV footage and other evidence. Odisha is also awaiting Central Zoo Authority approval to retain the cubs at Nandankanan if repatriation is not pursued.