In a significant crackdown on wildlife crime, a joint team of the Ahmedabad Rural Police's Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Forest Department has successfully busted an illegal racket trafficking Indian star tortoises. The operation led to the arrest of four individuals and the rescue of ten protected tortoises.
The Raid and Arrests
The raid was executed after authorities conducted meticulous technical surveillance. The team was led by SOG Police Inspector Satish Ramani and Range Forest Officer (RFO) Rajendrasinh Vaghela. The accused were allegedly using the Instagram handle 'Ahmedabad_dog_lovers' as a front to connect with potential buyers interested in purchasing the tortoises.
Police have identified the four arrested persons as Mukesh Dileep Soni, who managed the Instagram account; Shubham Sunil Notwani, who has a previous history of being caught for trafficking protected animal species; Yashwantsinh Rajendrasinh Chauhan, who acted as the intermediary between clients and sellers; and Sanket Mahesh Sonawane, who was responsible for delivering the animals to clients using the Porter delivery application.
Modus Operandi of the Racket
Investigations reveal that the accused used social media platforms to reach out to buyers. Payments for the illegal transactions were conveniently processed through UPI platforms. During the interrogation, police discovered that the group had already traded more than 50 Indian star tortoises before the bust. A further investigation into the network and its clients is currently underway.
Why The Indian Star Tortoise Is Targeted
The Indian star tortoise (Geochelone elegans) is highly prized in the international wildlife market, primarily for its distinctive star-patterned shell. The species faces immense threat due to demand for being kept as exotic pets and for use in various superstitious ceremonies, particularly in Southeast Asian countries.
This species is afforded the highest level of protection under Indian law. It is listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Catching, keeping, or trading this tortoise is a serious offence, punishable with imprisonment that can extend up to seven years and a fine of Rs 25,000.
This successful joint operation highlights the ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to combat the illegal wildlife trade and protect the country's biodiversity.
