SRINAGAR: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Mumbai, have busted an interstate wildlife trafficking racket during a joint operation conducted across Maharashtra and West Bengal, resulting in the arrest of six accused and the rescue of 53 protected animals and birds.
According to officials, the operation was launched on the basis of specific intelligence regarding an organised interstate crime syndicate allegedly involved in the illegal trade of wildlife protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The agencies carried out coordinated searches at multiple locations in Maharashtra and West Bengal, recovering 53 protected animals and birds, including Star Tortoises, Egyptian Vultures and Shikra birds.
The CBI has registered two separate cases in connection with the racket. Three accused were arrested from Mumbai, while three others were apprehended from Kolkata.
Officials said the cases have been registered under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and for criminal conspiracy under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the rescued animals and birds were sourced from different parts of the country for illegal trade.
The CBI said the joint operation underscores the coordinated efforts of the CBI and DRI to dismantle wildlife trafficking networks and strengthen enforcement of wildlife protection laws.
