CBI, DRI Bust Wildlife Trafficking Racket, Rescue 52 Animals

In a significant joint operation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Mumbai, along with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), have busted a wildlife trafficking racket, rescuing 52 protected animals and birds. The operation, which took place at multiple locations in Maharashtra and West Bengal, resulted in the arrest of six accused individuals.

The rescued animals include 15 Slow Loris, 2 Binturong, 28 Star Tortoises, 6 Egyptian Vultures, and 2 Shikra birds, all of which are listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. This schedule provides the highest level of protection for these species in India.

The CBI registered two separate cases on July 7 and 8, 2026, under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and Criminal Conspiracy. The accused individuals, identified as Noman Khan, Mohammed Faruq, Insha Shakil from Mumbai, and Saikat Biswas, Mithun Mondal alias Himanshu Mandal, and Arjun Mondal from Kolkata, were arrested and will face further investigation.

According to officials, the joint action was conducted based on specific intelligence developed by DRI Mumbai about an interstate crime syndicate involved in the trade of wildlife protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. The animals and birds were sourced from various parts of India for trading purposes.

After the initial proceedings, the rescued wildlife was handed over to the forest departments of Maharashtra and West Bengal for safe custody and handling. The investigation of the case is ongoing, with the CBI and DRI working together to disrupt wildlife trafficking networks and enforce the Wildlife Protection Act.

The Wildlife (Protection) Act is a crucial piece of legislation aimed at protecting India's rich wildlife heritage. The act provides for the protection of endangered species, regulation of wildlife trade, and conservation of habitats. The joint operation by the CBI and DRI demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to enforcing this act and protecting India's wildlife.

The rescue of 52 protected animals and birds is a significant achievement, highlighting the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies in combating wildlife trafficking. The operation also underscores the need for continued efforts to protect India's wildlife and prevent the exploitation of endangered species.

In recent years, India has seen a rise in wildlife trafficking cases, with many species being targeted for their body parts, fur, or feathers. The joint operation by the CBI and DRI is a step in the right direction, demonstrating the government's commitment to protecting India's wildlife and upholding the law.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the case unfolds. However, the successful rescue of 52 protected animals and birds is a positive development, and the joint operation serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting India's rich wildlife heritage.

The operation also highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating wildlife trafficking. The CBI, DRI, and WCCB worked together to gather intelligence, conduct raids, and rescue the protected animals and birds. This collaboration is crucial in disrupting wildlife trafficking networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.

In conclusion, the joint operation by the CBI and DRI is a significant achievement in the fight against wildlife trafficking. The rescue of 52 protected animals and birds demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protecting India's wildlife and upholding the law. The operation serves as a reminder of the importance of continued efforts to protect India's rich wildlife heritage and prevent the exploitation of endangered species.

The success of this operation has significant implications for Mumbai and the surrounding regions. The city is a major hub for wildlife trafficking, and the joint operation demonstrates the government's commitment to combating this crime. The rescue of protected animals and birds also highlights the importance of protecting Mumbai's natural heritage and preserving the city's biodiversity.

Overall, the joint operation by the CBI and DRI is a positive development in the fight against wildlife trafficking. The rescue of 52 protected animals and birds is a significant achievement, and the operation serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting India's rich wildlife heritage and preventing the exploitation of endangered species.