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Pangolin Scales Seized: Wildlife Crime Network Exposed
22 Jan
Summary
- Nearly 60 kg of pangolin scales seized by forest officials.
- Wildlife crime network spans Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
- 61 arrests made, with offenders sent to judicial custody.
Between November 18, 2025, and January 20, 2026, forest officials from Palamu Tiger Reserve and surrounding regions successfully confiscated around 60 kg of pangolin scales. This operation also yielded other illicit wildlife items, including two red sand boa snakes, 2 kg of coral, deer and leopard skins, and snake venom. Significant arrests were made, with 61 individuals apprehended and remanded to judicial custody, indicating a well-established wildlife crime network. This network appears to extend across Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
The Palamu Tiger Reserve authorities are advocating for a more proactive approach to wildlife protection, suggesting the formation of armed platoons for personnel. The Jharkhand government has empowered deputy directors and range officers with magisterial powers to facilitate the recovery of wildlife trophies and evidence. Despite these measures, the investigation and prosecution of wildlife crime cases require further enhancement. Authorities are seeking enhanced infrastructure, including a forensic lab, and appealing to the public for assistance in tracking wildlife traffickers.
