How did the Int'l tiger smuggler get convicted after a 9-year chase?

Bhopal, July 3 (NationPress) The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department's State Tiger Force has been instrumental in securing justice against international tiger smuggler Tashi Sherpa, who received a five-year prison sentence. This conviction, delivered by a trial court in Narmadapuram (formerly Hoshangabad) on May 9, marks a significant achievement in India's fight against transnational wildlife trafficking.

Sherpa, a pivotal player in a structured network that extends across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China, was captured following a lengthy pursuit and an exhaustive investigation employing scientific and cyber forensic techniques.

Interpol, based in Lyon, France, sent a commendation letter to the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, praising the remarkable efforts of its State Tiger Force.

The global law enforcement agency also recognized its contribution in tracking and convicting Sherpa, whose smuggling operations reached into Nepal, Bhutan, and China.

Sherpa's name had previously appeared in red corner notices from Interpol, alongside other fugitives associated with international wildlife crime syndicates.

Both Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Forest and Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav extended their congratulations to the Forest Department and commended the vigilance of the State Tiger Force.

In a social media update, the Chief Minister termed the conviction a milestone and reaffirmed the government's dedication to enhancing efforts in forest and wildlife conservation.

Officers involved in the Sherpa case will receive recognition for their exemplary service.

This case stands as a first in the nation, involving the arrest and conviction of 28 individuals — from tiger poachers to couriers and intermediaries — connected to a single smuggling syndicate.

One primary suspect, kingpin JE Tamang alias Pasang Limi, remains at large, despite Interpol issuing a red corner notice for his apprehension.

Sherpa, a Tibetan national, was apprehended on January 25, 2024, in Siliguri, West Bengal, near the India-Nepal border, after evading capture for nearly a decade.

Through actionable intelligence and a sustained manhunt, the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department successfully located him.

His arrest followed a rigorous nine-year campaign by the special task force created by the state government to combat poaching and wildlife smuggling.

Previously, the Supreme Court dismissed Sherpa's bail request, directing the trial court to expedite proceedings due to the severity of the crime.

The prosecution's case was significantly strengthened by scientific and cyber evidence, including brain-mapping and polygraph test results, along with extensive digital data linking Sherpa to organized tiger trafficking operations.

The State Tiger Force, established under the guidelines of the Central government, has been critical in uncovering several major interstate and international smuggling networks.

This marks the fourth time Interpol has formally recognized the unit's efforts.