Who Were the Four Smugglers Arrested by DRI in the Red Sanders Export Attempt?
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has arrested four smugglers attempting to export illegal red sanders valued at Rs 6.26 crore from Chennai. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking and illegal drug manufacturing in India.
Key Takeaways
Four smugglers arrested by DRI in Chennai.
Attempted export of red sanders valued at Rs 6.26 crore.
15 MT of red sanders seized from warehouses.
Operation highlights ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking.
DRI also dismantled a Mephedrone facility in Maharashtra.
New Delhi, Dec 14 (NationPress) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has apprehended four smugglers during an operation that successfully disrupted an attempt to illicitly export red sanders worth Rs 6.26 crore from Chennai, an official confirmed on Sunday.
A total of 15 MT of red sanders was confiscated from various warehouses in Chennai, as stated by the official.
The quartet includes a key operative, two associates responsible for the packing and transportation of red sanders, and a supplier-side intermediary.
Red sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus) are listed in Appendix II of CITES and Schedule-IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, making their export illegal under the Foreign Trade Policy, according to the statement.
Specific intelligence suggested that red sanders were being covertly stored in several godowns around Chennai, with plans for export via Delhi.
Consequently, DRI officers conducted coordinated searches at three locations between December 9 and 11, leading to the seizure of 169 logs of Grade A quality, weighing 5.55 MT.
Among these logs, 76 were wrapped and concealed in white HDPE packing material, prepared for loading onto a truck destined for Delhi, with cover cargo labeled as “Household articles” found at one site, as per the DRI statement.
The contraband and its cover goods were seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. In the other two locations, 9.55 MTs of red sanders in various forms, including logs, roots, and furniture, were also recovered.
In a related effort, last week, the DRI dismantled a secret Mephedrone manufacturing facility in Wardha, Maharashtra, during a targeted operation known as “Operation Hinterland Brew.”
This operation, executed on December 7-8, resulted in the confiscation of 128 kg of Mephedrone, valued at approximately Rs 192 crore, alongside 245 kg of precursor chemicals, raw materials, and a complete processing setup, according to an official statement.
Following specific intelligence, DRI officers conducted discreet surveillance and a search operation in a remote area of Karanja (Ghadge), located around 60 km from Wardha.
Three individuals operating the facility were arrested, including the mastermind, who also served as the financier and chemist, along with his two associates.
Point of View
The DRI's recent operation indicates the ongoing commitment to combat wildlife trafficking. Such actions highlight the importance of stringent enforcement of laws designed to protect our natural resources. As the nation grapples with issues of illegal trade, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to safeguard endangered species.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are red sanders?
Red sanders, scientifically known as Pterocarpus santalinus, are valuable hardwood trees native to India, known for their rich red color and high demand in international markets.
Why is the export of red sanders illegal?
The export of red sanders is illegal under the Foreign Trade Policy and is listed in Appendix II of CITES due to their endangered status and the threat of over-exploitation.
How did the DRI gather intelligence for this operation?
DRI officers developed specific intelligence indicating that red sanders were being stored clandestinely in various godowns in Chennai, leading to the operation.
What other illegal activities has the DRI tackled recently?
Recently, the DRI dismantled a Mephedrone manufacturing facility in Wardha, highlighting their ongoing efforts against drug trafficking as well.
What penalties do traffickers face for such crimes?
Traffickers face severe penalties under the Customs Act and Wildlife Protection Act, including fines and imprisonment, reflecting the serious nature of these offenses.
