September 9, 2024: The Central Forest Division, Manipur, has seized a cache of wildlife articles, including python skin and body parts, from a vehicle at Lamphel Sanakeithel area. The accused, identified as Shri Jaokhupou Pamei, a resident of Thangal Longzang, Bishnupur, was apprehended along with his family members. Acting on a tip-off, a team of forest officials intercepted the suspected vehicle and found the prohibited wildlife articles. The accused was taken into custody and is being investigated for his involvement in wildlife trafficking.
The seized articles include python skin, head, gall bladder, eyes, tail, claws, and fats. Python is a Schedule I species, and the offense is punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (amendment 2024). The Seized Vehicle will be tried in the court of authorised officer under section 52(1) of IFA Manipur amanemdent 2018. The Central Forest Division, Manipur, has been actively working to combat wildlife trafficking and protect the state's rich biodiversity. This seizure is a significant achievement in the division's efforts to curb wildlife crime.
Further investigation is underway to unravel the network involved in wildlife trafficking.