DRI Uncovers Major Trafficking Network in Chhattisgarh, Seizes Over 16 kg of Pangolin Scales
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has apprehended three individuals and seized over 16 kg of Indian Pangolin scales in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against illegal wildlife trafficking.
Key Takeaways
The DRI seized over 16 kg of Indian Pangolin scales.
Three individuals were arrested during the operation.
The Indian Pangolin is legally protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Illegal wildlife trade poses a significant threat to pangolins.
Collaboration among enforcement agencies is crucial in combating wildlife trafficking.
Raipur, April 12 (NationPress) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) from the Nagpur Regional Unit has successfully dismantled an illegal wildlife trafficking operation in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, specifically involving the unlawful trade of Indian Pangolin scales. This significant operation led to the arrest of three individuals on Sunday.
During the crackdown, authorities recovered an impressive total of 16.528 kg of Indian Pangolin scales from the suspects, as confirmed by DRI officials.
The Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) is categorized under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, granting it the utmost legal protection. The trade of pangolins and their derivatives is strictly forbidden under this legislation, as highlighted by the officials.
Following the necessary seizure procedures, the detained individuals and the confiscated scales were transferred to the Forest Range Officer of Jagdalpur for further action in accordance with the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Pangolins are unlawfully hunted for their meat and scales, which are mistakenly believed to have medicinal benefits in some traditional medicine markets and luxury fashion sectors.
Officials noted that a consistent international demand has propelled organized poaching and trafficking operations, resulting in pangolins being recognized as the most trafficked mammals globally.
With this operation, the DRI NaRU has effectively dismantled several illegal wildlife trafficking networks since 2025. These include syndicates in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, dealing with leopard skins, and another network in Seoni, Madhya Pradesh, which was involved in the illegal killing of a tiger cub and its body parts.
Officials emphasized that these ongoing enforcement efforts highlight DRI's dedication to wildlife protection and its relentless pursuit to combat organized environmental crimes.
Through strong collaboration with State Forest departments across various states and additional enforcement agencies, DRI is committed to dismantling both national and international trafficking operations via precise, intelligence-led actions under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Point of View
The DRI's successful operation against the illegal wildlife trafficking syndicate emphasizes the urgent need to protect endangered species and combat organized crime in wildlife trade. The case serves as a wake-up call for both authorities and the public regarding the gravity of wildlife trafficking.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized during the DRI operation?
The DRI operation led to the seizure of over 16 kg of Indian Pangolin scales.
What is the legal status of Indian Pangolins?
Indian Pangolins are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, prohibiting their trade.
What are pangolins hunted for?
Pangolins are illegally hunted for their meat and scales, which are falsely believed to have medicinal properties.
How does DRI combat wildlife trafficking?
The DRI conducts intelligence-driven operations and collaborates with State Forest departments to dismantle trafficking networks.
Why are pangolins considered the most trafficked mammals?
Pangolins are the most trafficked mammals due to high international demand for their scales and meat.
