500 turtles rescue from smugglers at border in dramatic operation in eastern India
by Bhagyashree BarmanIn a significant wildlife rescue operation, the Forest Department in eastern India’s Odisha intercepted two vehicles carrying over 500 live turtles on the Andhra-Odisha border.
The incident took place near the Kalimela area of Malkangiri district on September 4.
Visuals showed the rescued turtles tightly packed in containers, a stark reminder of the cruel conditions in which they were being smuggled along with the smugglers caught by the forest officials.
According to reports, the dramatic bust occurred after officers from the Motu section, acting on a tip-off, stopped the pick-up vans allegedly transporting fertilizer. However, upon inspection, the vehicles were found to be packed with containers filled with turtles.
The turtles were reportedly being transported from Andhra Pradesh to Odisha using methods reminiscent of the smuggling tactics popularized in the film Pushpa. The discovery prompted immediate action, with four individuals arrested on the spot and the vehicles seized by authorities.
The rescued turtles, now under the protection of the Forest Department, are a mix of different species, all endangered due to illegal trade. This operation underscores the ongoing battle against wildlife smuggling in the region. The Forest Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the smuggling network involved, ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.