86 Tokay Geckos Seized in Assam, Two Held by DRI in Wildlife Trade Case

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 86 live Tokay Geckos and apprehended two persons in Assam as part of a crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking, officials said.

Acting on specific intelligence about an alleged wildlife trade deal, DRI officers intercepted the two persons at Bandar Chalia Gaon Ground in Mariani on September 22, 2026.

During the operation, the officials recovered 86 live Tokay Geckos from their possession and seized them under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

The Tokay Gecko is a protected wildlife species and is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides it with the highest level of legal protection under the Act.

The species is also included in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), under which international trade in the species is regulated.

Following the seizure, the two apprehended persons, along with the recovered live geckos, were handed over to the Mariani Range Forest Office for further action under the relevant provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

The operation is part of the DRI's efforts to detect and disrupt illegal trafficking of wildlife species and prevent their movement through illicit trade networks.

Officials said wildlife species such as Tokay Geckos are sometimes targeted in illegal markets because of their perceived medicinal properties and demand among buyers seeking exotic pets.