Three Individuals Arrested in Surat for Possessing Rs 1.07 Crore of Rare Ambergris
Synopsis
In a significant bust in Surat, three men were arrested for possessing over 1 kilogram of ambergris, a highly valuable substance derived from sperm whales. The trio was trying to sell it, believing they could find buyers in the economic hub.
Key Takeaways
Three men were arrested in Surat for possessing illegal ambergris.
The seized ambergris is valued at Rs 1.07 crore.
Ambergris is a substance derived from sperm whales and is illegal to trade in India.
Authorities emphasize the importance of reporting found ambergris to the proper channels.
Trading ambergris is punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
Surat, April 20 (NationPress) - On Monday, authorities apprehended three individuals from the Dindoli locality of Surat after seizing 1.071 kilograms of ambergris, a rare waxy substance formed in the intestines of sperm whales, according to officials.
The illicit substance has an estimated worth of Rs 1.07 crore, which was confiscated during a raid conducted in the city.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Ambrish Mishra (34), a delivery executive hailing from Jaunpur district in Uttar Pradesh; Sonu alias Bablu Upadhyay (40), a rickshaw driver also from Jaunpur; and Sandeep Upadhyay (35), another rickshaw driver from the same district. All three were residing in Surat.
The ambergris was discovered in their possession, stored in a white and red full-design plastic bag.
DCP SOG (Special Operations Group) Rajdipsinh Nakum reported that the men received the ambergris from Dhiru Vaghela and Umesh Paliya approximately three months prior, near the Bharuch seashore.
“For the past week, these individuals had been wandering around seeking to sell the substance. During this period, a tip-off led to their arrest by the SOG,” he explained.
Nakum highlighted that Mishra serves as a Flipkart delivery personnel, while both Sonu and Sandeep Upadhyay work as rickshaw drivers.
No prior criminal history has been associated with any of the three suspects.
Nakum pointed out that these individuals came to Surat, thinking its economic status would facilitate finding buyers. “However, customers of this nature are rarely encountered,” he remarked.
He further added, “Cosmetic manufacturing companies source ambergris exclusively from authorized dealers recognized by the government. No business purchases from illegal sources.”
He encouraged anyone who discovers ambergris on the coastline to promptly contact the Forest Department or local police.
“If anyone finds ambergris, they should contact the Forest Department or the police and ensure it is handed over to the government,” Nakum advised.
Ambergris is a waxy material that initially emits a foul odor but gradually transitions to a sweet scent.
It is utilized as a fixative in the fragrance industry and is often referred to as “floating gold” due to its significant value.
Trading ambergris is illegal in India and is subject to penalties under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
The three suspects have been transferred to the Gujarat Forest Department’s Dumas office for further inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trade of ambergris legal in India?
No, trading ambergris is illegal in India and is punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
How much ambergris was seized in Surat?
The police seized 1.071 kilograms of ambergris from the three arrested individuals.
What is the estimated value of the seized ambergris?
The ambergris seized is valued at approximately Rs 1.07 crore.
What should someone do if they find ambergris on the beach?
If you find ambergris on the seashore, you should contact the Forest Department or the police immediately.
