Surat Police Uncover Illegal Cobra Venom Trade Disguised as Marriage Bureau
Police in Surat have made a significant breakthrough in cracking down on illegal wildlife trade. The Surat Special Operation Group (SOG) has dismantled a gang that was allegedly selling cobra venom. Authorities arrested seven people in connection with this illicit operation.
Marriage Bureau Served as Front for Illegal Activity
Investigators revealed that the illegal trade was being conducted under the cover of a marriage bureau. The police team acted on a specific tip-off and conducted raids at the office of 'Patel Life Partner' marriage bureau located in the Sarthana area of Surat.
During the raid, police discovered cobra venom on the premises. Forensic officials conducted tests immediately at the site. These tests confirmed that the substance was indeed cobra venom.
Seven Individuals Taken Into Custody
The police have identified all seven arrested individuals. Manukh Dhinaiya, aged 67, owned the marriage bureau that served as the front for this operation. Chiman Bhuva, 60, hails from Pasodara in Surat.
The remaining five accused all come from different areas in Vadodara. They are Praveen Shah (74), Markand Kulkarni (54), Ketan Shah (50), Prashant Shah (41), and Samir Panchal (41).
Valuable Contraband Seized by Authorities
Police confiscated approximately 6.5 milliliters of cobra venom from the accused. Authorities have valued this seized venom at nearly Rs 5.85 crore. The arrests followed confirmation from forensic tests that established the substance as cobra venom.
Police Explain Venom's Illicit Uses
Surat SOG police inspector A P Chaudhary provided details about the case. He stated that cobra venom finds application in several unauthorized areas. These include certain medicines for heart conditions, cancer treatments, and blood pressure management.
Chaudhary also mentioned that the venom sometimes appears at rave parties. Police are currently questioning the arrested individuals to gather more information about their operations.
Search Continues for Additional Suspect
Investigators have identified another person connected to this case. Ghanshyam Soni allegedly sold the cobra venom to the arrested individuals. Police say Soni operated from Ahmedabad.
A special police team has traveled to Ahmedabad to locate and apprehend Soni. The investigation remains active as authorities work to uncover the full extent of this illegal trade network.
