A CORRESPONDENT
DHEKIAJULI: In a major breakthrough against illegal wildlife trafficking, the Dhekiajuli Forest Department, under the leadership of Pallabi Das, seized 1 kg of rare and highly valuable Pangolin scales during a well-executed raid in Gadhajuli, under Dhekiajuli Co- District on Friday. Acting on a tip-off, forest officials swiftly conducted the operation, leading to the arrest of three smugglers involved in the illicit trade of protected wildlife species.
The accused have been identified as Pankaj Rabha from Ghagara Kachari, Saman Ali from Morigaon, and Bapan Nath from Balishiha, Dhekiajuli. Authorities suspect that the trio is part of a larger international smuggling network dealing in illegal wildlife products. Pangolin scales are highly sought after in the black market, particularly in countries where they are falsely believed to have medicinal properties, despite strict international bans. The illegal trade poses a severe threat to the already endangered Pangolin species.
The Forest Department has now launched an extensive probe to track down other members of the smuggling ring and dismantle the network. Officials have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on wildlife trafficking and protecting the region’s rich biodiversity. This successful operation sends a strong warning to wildlife traffickers and highlights the increasing vigilance of authorities in safeguarding endangered species from illegal exploitation.
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