DRI Foils Illegal Transport of 436 Baby Indian Tent Turtles in Lucknow

In a significant operation, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Zonal Unit, Lucknow, successfully intervened and rescued 436 baby Indian Tent Turtles from an illegal interstate transportation attempt.

The DRI, acting on specific intelligence, discovered the illicit trafficking of baby Gangetic turtles. The operation unfolded as the turtles were being transported from Kanpur to West Bengal through Varanasi by road in a bus for potential distribution in the grey market. In a swift action, DRI officers in Varanasi intercepted and searched the bus, leading to the arrest of one individual and the subsequent rescue of 436 baby turtles in the early hours of yesterday.

Following the initial seizure under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the case has been transferred to the Forest Department in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, for further investigation. The Indian Tent Turtle holds protected status under Schedule 1 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

This latest intervention adds to DRI Lucknow’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the environment. In the current financial year, the unit has successfully rescued 1721 baby Gangetic Turtles in five separate cases. The illegal trade and habitat degradation remain significant threats to the welfare of these protected species, emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance and conservation measures.