CBI-DRI Crackdown Hits Wildlife Trafficking Network, 53 Protected Species Rescued

A joint operation by the CBI and DRI Mumbai , with support from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) , has uncovered an interstate wildlife trafficking network, leading to the rescue of 53 protected animals and birds and the arrest of six accused persons .

Based on intelligence inputs, raids were carried out at multiple locations in Maharashtra and West Bengal against a suspected crime syndicate involved in the illegal trade of protected wildlife. The rescued species included 15 slow lorises, two binturongs, 28 star tortoises, six Egyptian vultures and two shikra birds .

All recovered species are listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 , which provides the highest level of protection due to threats from illegal trade and declining populations.

The CBI registered two cases on July 7 and 8 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act and criminal conspiracy provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 . Three accused were arrested in Mumbai and three in Kolkata for allegedly sourcing protected wildlife from different parts of India for illegal trading.

The rescued animals were handed over to the forest departments of Maharashtra and West Bengal for safe custody and further care. The operation highlights the growing threat of organised wildlife crime and the need for coordinated enforcement to protect biodiversity and dismantle trafficking networks.

The investigation into the wider network is ongoing.