In a significant crackdown on wildlife crime, officials in Mumbai have apprehended a man for illegally possessing a rare and protected substance derived from whales. The operation led to the seizure of ambergris, commonly known as whale vomit, with an estimated market value of a staggering ₹80 lakh.
Joint Operation Nets Accused from Gujarat
The Kurla police, in collaboration with the forest department, arrested 28-year-old Vishnubhai Makwana, a resident of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The arrest followed a specific tip-off received by the police, prompting immediate action. After initially detaining the suspect, the police promptly informed their counterparts in the forest department to take over the investigation due to the nature of the contraband.
The interception took place near the gate of Bohri Kabristan on LBS Marg in Kurla West. Authorities allege that Makwana was found in illegal possession of the banned wildlife product between 12:30 am and 2:00 am on December 21, 2025. His apparent intent was to sell the valuable substance on the black market.
Identification and Seizure of Whale Vomit
Upon reaching the location, the forest department team conducted a preliminary examination of the seized material. They employed the standard hot iron test, which prima facie confirmed the substance to be ambergris. This waxy, solid substance is produced in the digestive system of sperm whales and is highly sought after in the perfume industry for its unique fragrance-fixing properties.
The total quantity confiscated from the accused was meticulously weighed. Officials recorded the seized ambergris at 627 grams, a substantial amount given its extraordinary value, which places it among the costliest natural raw materials in the world.
Legal Repercussions and Ongoing Probe
Based on a formal complaint, the Kurla police have registered a case against Vishnubhai Makwana. He has been charged under multiple sections of the stringent Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, specifically Sections 39, 44, 49B, and 51. These sections deal with the possession, trade, and violation of protections afforded to scheduled animals and their by-products.
Ambergris is a protected wildlife product, and its trade is illegal in India. The investigation is currently ongoing, with officials likely probing the source of the ambergris and potential links to a wider smuggling network. This seizure highlights the continuous efforts by law enforcement and wildlife authorities to combat the illegal trade in endangered species and their derivatives.
