Late on Monday, a joint effort by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Assam's Criminal Investigation Bureau successfully rescued 74 endangered wild turtles from the Sealdah-Agartala Kanchanjunga Express. The operation took place at Assam's Lumding Railway Station following a tip-off regarding the presence of these precious creatures.
Officials revealed that the turtles were found concealed within boxes discreetly stashed beneath the train's seats as it made its stop in Lumding. An official involved in the operation explained, "We received specific information indicating that smugglers were illicitly transporting these turtles aboard the Kanchanjunga Express originating from Agartala. Consequently, upon the train's arrival at Lumding station, we meticulously searched the coaches."
Two individuals hailing from Mizoram, identified as Lalchhuanlina and Liansanspui, had the boxes containing the turtles. They insisted that they possessed the necessary permits to transport these animals. However, when asked to provide adequate documentation, they failed to do so, leading to their detention. An official stated, "Despite their claims of legality and payment to the railways for carriage, the absence of proper documentation compelled us to take action."
Subsequent examination by forest officials confirmed the endangered status of these turtles. An official commented, "The majority of these turtles are adults, and they fetch exorbitant prices in illegal markets."
Under the Wildlife Protection Act, a case was registered, resulting in the arrest of Lalchhuanlina and Liansanspui. The detained individuals are currently undergoing interrogation and are scheduled for a court appearance.
Investigations revealed that the smugglers boarded the train in Karimganj, raising suspicions that they may have traveled from Mizoram. The forest department has taken charge of the ongoing investigation, and the rescued turtles have been transported to the Assam State Zoo in Guwahati for their safety.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another wildlife smuggling operation in Assam's Cachar district, where five Mizoram residents were apprehended for allegedly trafficking exotic animals from Myanmar.
