Archive · 27 Jul 2026
AI Cameras Aid in Poacher Arrests in Similipal Tiger Reserve
In the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, India, four poachers were caught using special AI cameras.
These cameras can tell the difference between people, animals, and vehicles and send pictures quickly to the control room.
This helps the forest guards catch poachers before they can harm the animals.
The poachers had guns and other tools, but the guards stopped them in time.
The reserve has over 220 of these cameras and plans to add more.
This is part of a bigger plan to protect the unique black tigers and other wildlife in the area.
Four poachers were arrested in Similipal Tiger Reserve using AI-enabled cameras.
Items seized include two country-made guns, gunpowder, and head torches.
The AI cameras detect and classify humans, animals, or vehicles and send images to the control room within 40 seconds.
The reserve has over 220 AI cameras, with plans for further expansion.
The operation is part of an intensified monsoon security strategy to protect the reserve's ecosystem.
- Who
- Four poachers: Phaguram Tudu, Ram Chandra Kisku, Ranjan Kisku, Biswanath Hansda
- What
- Arrest of poachers using AI cameras
- When
- Recent (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Similipal Tiger Reserve, Odisha, India
- Why
- To prevent poaching and protect wildlife, particularly the rare melanistic tigers
Conservationists
Poachers
Use of Technology in Wildlife Protection
Conservationists
Support the use of AI cameras to protect wildlife and prevent poaching.
Poachers
Oppose the use of technology, arguing it infringes on their activities and livelihoods.
- Location
- Similipal Tiger Reserve, Odisha, India
- Arrested Poachers
- Phaguram Tudu, Ram Chandra Kisku, Ranjan Kisku, Biswanath Hansda
- Items Seized
- Two country-made guns, gunpowder, two head torches
- Technology Used
- AI-enabled TrailGuard cameras
- Number of Cameras
- 220 (as of mid-2026)