Nagpur: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence’s Nagpur Regional Unit (DRI-NaRU) has busted an illegal wildlife trafficking syndicate operating in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district and rescued several protected animals, including Malabar Giant Squirrels, an Indian Star Tortoise, Jungle Fowl and Small Indian Civets.
The intelligence-led operation was carried out on June 24 and 25, 2026, by the DRI Nagpur Regional Unit of the Mumbai Zonal Unit.
During the operation, DRI officers intercepted a suspect in Srikakulam city and rescued four Malabar Giant Squirrels, one Indian Star Tortoise and 14 Jungle Fowl, all of which were found confined in cages.
Subsequent investigations led the team to a remote location in Rayakurdi village, around 60 kilometres from Srikakulam. Despite difficult terrain, lack of electricity and no mobile network connectivity, the officers continued the operation late into the night and successfully rescued two Small Indian Civet babies from the site.
The Malabar Giant Squirrel, Small Indian Civet and Indian Star Tortoise are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which accords them the highest degree of legal protection by prohibiting their hunting, possession, transport and trade. The recovered animals were seized under the provisions of the Act.
After completing the seizure formalities, the apprehended individual and the rescued animals were handed over to the Forest Department in Srikakulam for further action under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
According to officials, these species are frequently targeted by illegal traffickers due to their demand in the exotic pet trade and among wildlife collectors. Such activities pose a significant threat to biodiversity and the survival of protected species in their natural habitats.
The operation underscores the DRI’s continued vigilance and commitment to combating wildlife crime through intelligence-driven enforcement actions in coordination with State Forest Departments and other agencies.
The DRI has appealed to the public to remain vigilant and share any information regarding illegal wildlife trade or trafficking with law enforcement authorities, stating that public cooperation is crucial in protecting India’s rich wildlife heritage and curbing organised wildlife crime.
