A joint enforcement operation at Kabootar Market in Jama Masjid, New Delhi, on 9 August 2026 led to the rescue of 863 birds and animals — including 431 protected or scheduled species — from five pet shops allegedly engaged in illegal wildlife trade. The operation was conducted by Delhi Police's Central District in coordination with People For Animals (PFA), World Wide Animal, and officials of Delhi's Forest and Wildlife Department.

How the Raid Unfolded

Credible intelligence regarding the alleged illegal sale, possession, and unlawful confinement of protected wildlife at Kabootar Market's pet shops was first received by PFA. The information was subsequently shared with World Wide Animal and the Forest and Wildlife Department, Delhi, triggering a coordinated response. A dedicated team from Police Station Jama Masjid — comprising Sub Inspector Bijender, W/SI Saloni, and Head Constable Vinod — conducted the operation under the supervision of the Station House Officer (SHO), Jama Masjid, and the overall oversight of ACP Daryaganj.

Five pet shops were systematically inspected during the joint operation. Investigators found birds and animals confined in cages, many of which were described as overcrowded and maintained in unhygienic conditions, according to officials.

Animals and Species Recovered

Of the 863 animals and birds rescued, 431 belonged to protected or scheduled species under Indian wildlife law. Beyond birds, the haul included 18 Guinea Pigs, nine Grey Squirrels, 41 White Mice, and 11 Rabbits. Protected and scheduled birds were seized by the concerned wildlife authorities, while animals found in cruel or improper conditions were taken into care by PFA in accordance with the law. All recovered wildlife was examined, identified, and segregated with the assistance of wildlife and animal welfare organisations.

FIR Registered, Five Persons Identified

FIR No. 432/2026, dated 10 August 2026, was registered at Police Station Jama Masjid, Central District, Delhi, on the complaint of a PFA-affiliated activist. The case has been registered under Sections 9/39/44/49/50/51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960; and Sections 325/3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Five individuals — Iqbal Khan, Akash, Kani Ram, Mohd. Adil Khan, and Rashid Khan, all residents of Kabootar Market, Jama Masjid — have been identified and bound over as per law. Officials confirmed that no previous criminal involvement has been reported or verified against any of the five at this stage.

Investigation Focus: Supply Chain and Sourcing

Investigators are working to map the complete supply chain behind the alleged illegal trade. Inquiries are focused on establishing the source of procurement of protected wildlife, the identities of transporters, the distribution network, and the intended destinations of the recovered animals. The individual roles of the five identified persons are being verified, and the involvement of other pet shops and connected individuals is also under scrutiny, according to police.

This comes amid a broader pattern of enforcement actions against illegal wildlife trade in urban pet markets across India, where protected species are often sold openly under the cover of legal pet trade. The scale of the Kabootar Market recovery — 863 animals from just five shops — underscores the systemic nature of the problem.