Indonesia wants to bring home five young orangutans found in a forest in eastern India. Authorities are investigating suspected wildlife trafficking.
The animals were rescued on September 8 in Balasore district, in India’s Odisha state. They were taken to Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar for care. Although early information described all five as healthy, a September 14 report said one was receiving treatment for a recurring fever.
Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry believes the orangutans may come from Sumatra, an Indonesian island. However, DNA tests are needed to confirm their species and origin before their return can go ahead.
Ministry official Ristianto Pribadi said Indonesia was working with Indian authorities to arrange the necessary checks and prepare for the journey. He told The Indian Express that any transfer would need to follow India’s investigation and receive approval from the relevant court.
Orangutans live naturally only on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo, in Indonesia and Malaysia. Finding five young animals in an Indian forest has raised concerns that they were brought into the country by wildlife traffickers.
Indonesia has asked for information about their possible route. Where they entered India and whether they passed through other countries.
For now, the five remain in India while officials work to confirm where they came from.
Support The Animal Reader
The Animal Reader is an independent animal news platform based in the Netherlands. By becoming a monthly supporter, you help us investigate, report and keep animal stories in the news.
Support independent animal journalism. Help us give animals a voice in the news.
