In a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking, the Guwahati police successfully thwarted a smuggling attempt, rescuing 26 live geckos and apprehending two suspects in the Betkuchi area of the city. The operation was conducted based on intelligence received by Police Commissioner Partha Sarathi Mahanta, who promptly assembled a specialized tactical team to intercept the smugglers.
Operation Details
Under the commissioner's guidance, the raid was executed on Saturday night near the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) in Bathoupuri, Betkuchi, close to the Bathou Temple. The police team intercepted and detained two individuals, identified as Ikramul Hussain from Nagaon district and Jamiruddin from Barpeta district.
Concealment Method
During a thorough search of the suspects' belongings, officials discovered a cruel concealment method. The 26 live geckos were individually packed into bamboo tubes, locally known as sungas. Each bamboo tube was meticulously wrapped with netting and cotton cloth, containing one live gecko. The accused were illegally transporting these reptiles for the explicit purpose of wildlife smuggling, according to Gorchuk police station Officer-in-Charge Vikram Basumatary.
Legal Action and Investigation
The officer confirmed that necessary legal action has been initiated against the two arrested individuals. The investigation aims to uncover their intended destination and any larger network involved in the smuggling operation. The rescued geckos have been handed over to the forest department for proper care and rehabilitation.
This successful operation highlights the vigilance of the Guwahati police in combating wildlife crimes and protecting endangered species. The public is urged to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife trafficking to the authorities.
