Nagpur: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Nagpur Unit, under the Mumbai Zonal Unit, conducted an operation in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, resulting in the seizure of two leopard skins with heads and one ivory (wild boar horn). Based on specific intelligence regarding the trade of prohibited wildlife articles, DRI officials intercepted two individuals at a hotel in Ujjain.

The seized articles and the two individuals were transferred to the District Forest Division, Ujjain, for further investigation and action under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The seized items, comprising two leopard skins and one ivory, are regulated under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Leopards are listed in Schedule I of the Act, prohibiting the trade, sale, purchase, or possession of their skins or parts.

This operation follows a similar seizure by the DRI Nagpur Unit in January 2025, when one leopard skin was recovered in Akola, Maharashtra, and three individuals were apprehended. These operations reflect the DRI’s sustained efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade through intelligence-based enforcement.

The DRI, under the Ministry of Finance, collaborates with state forest departments and other agencies to enforce the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. These efforts aim to disrupt networks engaged in the illegal trade of wildlife articles within India and across its borders.

The Government of India remains committed to protecting endangered species and preserving the nation’s biodiversity through stringent enforcement of relevant laws.

The DRI encourages public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities related to wildlife trade to support the enforcement of conservation laws. The Ministry of Finance reiterates its resolve to ensure compliance with legal provisions safeguarding India’s wildlife.