Pune’s forest department recently conducted a series of raids in Viman Nagar, seizing a total of 197.7 kg of coral stones and two macaws. The raids were part of a crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking in the city, which has become a key hub for such activities.
Officials have noted that Pune is connected to major trade routes that facilitate the smuggling of endangered species to Mumbai, Chennai, and the Middle East. In a similar operation last year, raids were conducted at over 16 locations suspected of harboring protected animals under the Wildlife Protection Act.
During Monday’s raids, coral stones and macaws were seized from Blessings Aquarium in Viman Nagar. Coral, which is crucial to marine ecosystems, is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and illegal to trade or possess. The accused, Amlan Asim Biswas, has been remanded to custody until October 20.
Range Forest Officer Suresh Varak, who is leading the investigation, stated that efforts are being intensified to monitor trade routes and track the origin of the coral stones. The action was taken under the guidance of senior forest officials, including Chief Conservator of Forests NR Pravin and DCF Mahadev Mohite.
The forest department team involved in the raids included various officers and forest guards, who are committed to combatting illegal wildlife trafficking in the region. The authorities are determined to crack down on such activities and protect endangered species from exploitation.
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