Assam STF Seizes 4kg Elephant Ivory Worth ₹6 Lakh Near Bhutan Border

On Friday night, the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam conducted an operation near the Indo-Bhutan border in Tamulpur district, resulting in the arrest of two men and the seizure of 4 kg of elephant ivory. The operation was based on reliable intelligence regarding the illegal trade of elephant ivory in the area.

The two arrested individuals, Gwhwm Basumatary (29) and Swdwbma Badimatary (23), are residents of Tamulpur. From their possession, the STF team recovered two elephant ivory tusks, weighing 2.09 kg and 1.97 kg respectively. Preliminary investigations suggest that the men were attempting to sell the ivory tusks for approximately ₹6 lakh, at a rate of around ₹1.5 lakh per kg.

The STF, Assam, has handed over the arrested individuals, the recovered ivory tusks, and other seized items to the Forest Department. An FIR has been lodged for necessary legal action and further investigation into the inter-State and pan-India nexus involved in the illegal trafficking and trade of wildlife and wildlife products.

The operation is part of the STF, Assam's efforts to combat organised wildlife crime and protect the state's precious wildlife resources. The recovery of 4 kg of elephant ivory is a significant seizure, and the estimated value of ₹6 lakh highlights the lucrative nature of the illegal wildlife trade.

The Indo-Bhutan border is a known route for the smuggling of wildlife products, including elephant ivory. The STF, Assam's operation is a step towards disrupting this trade and bringing those involved to justice.

The Forest Department will conduct further investigations into the matter, including identifying other individuals associated with the racket. The case highlights the need for continued efforts to protect wildlife and prevent the illegal trade of wildlife products.

The arrest of the two men and the seizure of the elephant ivory tusks is a significant achievement for the STF, Assam, and demonstrates their commitment to combating wildlife crime. The operation also underscores the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the Forest Department in protecting wildlife and preventing the illegal trade of wildlife products.

In conclusion, the seizure of 4 kg of elephant ivory worth ₹6 lakh near the Indo-Bhutan border is a significant blow to the illegal wildlife trade. The operation by the STF, Assam, highlights the need for continued efforts to protect wildlife and prevent the illegal trade of wildlife products, and demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the Forest Department.