Lucknow, March 31: A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Lucknow has convicted six individuals—Mumtaz Ahmed, Jaibun Nisha, Aziz Ullah, Waheed, Sartaj, and Majid—for their involvement in the illegal possession and trafficking of tiger and leopard parts. Each has been sentenced to two years in prison and fined ₹10,000.
This case is linked to a significant wildlife trafficking operation, during which a large quantity of prohibited wildlife items was seized from the defendants’ homes. The confiscated items included 18,000 leopard claws, 74 leopard skins, four tiger skins, and bones of both tigers and leopards. These items are classified under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which provides them with the highest level of protection and strictly prohibits their possession, trade, or transport.
The CBI registered this case on March 23, 2000, and after a thorough investigation, filed a complaint (chargesheet) before a competent court in Lucknow on July 15, 2000. The investigation confirmed the defendants’ active involvement in the organized trafficking and illegal trade of restricted wildlife items.
Based on the evidence presented by the prosecution, the court found all six defendants guilty under Section 49B and Section 51 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
Officials state that this conviction highlights the CBI’s commitment to combating wildlife crimes and dismantling illegal trafficking networks. It is hoped that this ruling will serve as a strong deterrent against those involved in wildlife trafficking and contribute to the conservation and protection of endangered species.
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