MAKWANPUR, June 30: Rhino’s horns have been illegally smuggled from the protected 'core area' of Parsa National Park (PNP), which is off-limits to the general public.

Approximately three months ago, a rhino was killed, but the incident only recently came to light. The rhinoceros’s horn was smuggled from the park's southern region, specifically Ward No. 7 of Manhari Rural Municipality in Makwanpur.

A dehorned and decomposing rhinoceros was discovered in the Bhalukhola estuary within the Chure area of the old Ramauli settlement.

Access to the area is strictly restricted without authorization from national park personnel. The incident was uncovered when local people, who were granted permission and supervised by the Nepali army to clean the water source, stumbled upon the carcass of the deceased rhinoceros.

"Rhinos have been hunted in places where no one can enter without the permission of the army. A rhinoceros has been found in the middle of the scary forest with its horn removed and in a decomposing state," said an eyewitness.

The incident remained unreported by park authorities for several days. Sitaram Aryal, chairman of the PNP Intermediate Zone Management Committee, expressed concerns that the missing horn suggests a possible case of smuggling.

"After the incident came to light, a team from the forest department initiated an investigation. It is indeed true that the incident occurred within the 'core area' of Parsa National Park," Aryal confirmed.

Meanwhile, when questioned about a potential cover-up, PNP Chief Conservation Officer Ashok Ram remained silent.

"We have no motive to conceal the incident. Our priority is to conduct a thorough investigation. An appointed officer is currently handling the case," he assured. "Considering the circumstances, it appears to be a case of smuggling. Regular forest patrols are in place, following designated routes. We are actively pursuing the investigation."

Chief Conservation Officer Ram acknowledged that ordinary individuals are prohibited from entering the grassland area. Lamitar and Pratappur posts' teams conduct patrols within the PNP jurisdiction. Additionally, Ram mentioned that the deceased rhinoceros will be sent to the forensic science laboratory for further examination.

Those who saw the dead rhinoceros speculated that traditional weapons might have been used to kill it.

The presence of slippers and cooked food was also discovered at the site. Prior to the incident, patrols in the area took place up to eight times a month, but in response to the incident, daily patrols have been initiated.

In light of these events, the local community has voiced their demand for a permanent post to be established in this region. Addressing this concern, an all-party meeting was convened at the Manahari Rural Municipality office on Thursday to discuss the matter comprehensively.

 
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