DRI busts wildlife trafficking racket in Andhra's Srikakulam; 21 protected animals rescued
Mumbai, June 26
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Nagpur Regional Unit of Mumbai Zonal Unit busted an illegal wildlife trafficking syndicate involved in the illicit trade of Malabar Giant Squirrels, Indian Star Tortoise, Jungle Fowl and Small Indian Civet in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh on June 24 and 25.
According to the Ministry of Finance, during the operation, the DRI officers intercepted a suspect in Srikakulam city and rescued four Malabar Giant Squirrels, one Indian Star Tortoise, and fourteen Jungle Fowl, all found confined in cages. Subsequent follow-up investigations led the DRI team to a remote location in Rayakurdi village, situated approximately 60 kilometres from Srikakulam.
Despite challenging terrain, the absence of electricity, and a lack of mobile network connectivity, the officers continued the operation late into the night and successfully rescued two small Indian Civet babies from the location.
The Malabar giant squirrel, Small Indian Civet and Indian star tortoises are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, giving them the highest degree of protection, by prohibiting their hunting, possession, transport and trade.
Accordingly, the recovered animals were seized under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Upon completion of seizure formalities, the apprehended person, along with the rescued animals, was handed over to the Forest Department, Srikakulam, for further necessary action under the relevant provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The rescued wildlife species are frequently targeted by illegal traffickers due to demand in the exotic pet trade and among wildlife collectors. Such illegal trade poses a serious threat to biodiversity and the survival of these protected species in their natural habitats.
DRI's sustained enforcement actions highlight DRI's continued vigilance and commitment to wildlife protection through intelligence-driven action against illegal wildlife trafficking networks in coordination with State Forest Departments and other enforcement agencies.
DRI appeals to the public to remain vigilant and share any specific information regarding illegal wildlife trade or trafficking with law enforcement agencies. Public cooperation is vital in protecting India's wildlife and combating wildlife crime.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who loves wildlife, this is both heartbreaking and encouraging. Heartbreaking that these animals were caged, but encouraging that authorities are taking action. The Malabar Giant Squirrel is such a magnificent species - I've seen them in the Western Ghats. We need stronger punishments for traffickers to deter this illegal trade.
Kudos to the DRI team! Working in remote areas without electricity or network - that's commitment. But we need to ask why these animals are being trafficked in the first place. The exotic pet demand is insane. Instead of just rescuing, we need public awareness campaigns in rural areas about wildlife laws. Prevention is better than cure.
So glad these animals were rescued! The Indian Star Tortoise is already endangered, and trafficking makes it worse. I've read that these tortoises are often smuggled for traditional medicine or as pets. Hopefully, the traffickers face strict legal consequences. Thank you DRI for your vigilance! 🌿🐢
Wildlife trafficking is such a shameful crime. These poor animals - especially those civet babies - must have been terrified. While I appreciate the DRI's efforts, I think we should also focus on strengthening local enforcement. Traffickers often use remote areas because they know police presence is weak there. More patrolling and informant networks needed.
This is excellent work by the DRI. Schedule I protection means these species are critically important. I hope the rescued animals can be reintroduced to their natural habitats after proper care. Also, it's good that the public is being asked to share information - community involvement is key in fighting wildlife crime.
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