Bhubaneswar, Sep 11: The discovery of five baby orangutans deep inside a forest in Odisha has triggered international concern, with Indonesia seeking their repatriation and investigators probing a possible cross-border wildlife trafficking network.

The five orangutans, estimated to be between one and one-and-a-half years old, were spotted on September 8 by forest personnel during routine patrolling in the Jaleswar range of Balasore district. Their presence in Odisha has raised questions as orangutans are native to Southeast Asia and are not naturally found in India.

The animals were rescued and shifted to Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar, where they have been placed under quarantine and are receiving veterinary care.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry has indicated that preliminary assessments suggest the animals could be Sumatran orangutans, an endangered species found in Indonesia. However, their exact species and geographical origin will be determined through DNA analysis.

Indonesian Forestry Ministry spokesperson Ristianto Pribadi said Jakarta has initiated communication with the Indian government through the Indian Embassy in Jakarta regarding the possible repatriation of the animals.

Meanwhile, Odisha forest officials are investigating how the orangutans reached the Jaleswar forest. A possible international wildlife trafficking angle has not been ruled out.

The wildlife wing of the Odisha Police’s Special Task Force (STF) has also registered a case following directions from DGP Vinaytosh Mishra. Investigators are examining the source and intended destination of the rescued primates and are working to determine whether an organised trafficking network was involved.

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