Major Wildlife Smuggling Attempt Foiled Near Guwahati, Suspects Escape
DRI thwarts elephant tusk smuggling near Guwahati, seizing 3.7 kg of ivory as suspects flee the scene.
Guwahati, November 10 (Daily Kiran) : The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) recently conducted a significant operation near Guwahati, successfully thwarting an attempt at wildlife smuggling. On November 5, officials intercepted a group of five suspects near the Sonapur toll gate, approximately 27 kilometers from the city. The suspects fled the scene, brandishing sharp weapons, but not before the DRI seized two elephant tusks weighing around 3.7 kilograms.
According to authorities, the operation was based on credible intelligence regarding the illegal trade of elephant tusks. At around 5:40 PM, the DRI team spotted the suspects on two motorcycles. One of the individuals was carrying a bag suspected to contain illegal wildlife products. When approached by the DRI officers, the suspects attempted to escape, threatening the pursuing personnel with weapons such as khukris and daos. Ultimately, they abandoned the bag and fled towards a nearby village.
Upon inspection, the bag was found to contain two elephant tusks, measuring 29 inches and 30 inches in length. These tusks were confiscated under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and have been handed over to the Assam Forest Department for further investigation and legal action.
Under Indian law, elephant tusks are classified as wildlife products that receive stringent protection. Elephants are listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. Additionally, the international trade of elephant tusks is heavily regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
This seizure has reignited concerns over wildlife trafficking in Northeast India, a region often identified as a transit corridor for the illegal trade of protected species and wildlife products due to its proximity to international borders. The DRI has expressed its commitment to combat wildlife smuggling through intelligence-based operations and coordination with other enforcement and forest agencies. Investigations are ongoing to identify and locate individuals involved in this alleged smuggling network.
