Home / Environment / Meghalaya Foils Major Wildlife Trafficking Ring
Meghalaya Foils Major Wildlife Trafficking Ring
5 Aug
Summary
- Four elephant tusks were seized in an operation on July 18.
- Suspected pangolin scales were recovered in a second operation.
- Two separate cases were registered under the Wild Life Protection Act.
Meghalaya's forest department has conducted two successful intelligence-led operations in the Ri Bhoi district, leading to significant seizures of illegal wildlife products. On July 18, 2026, acting on a tip from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, wildlife officials intercepted two suspects along the Nongpoh-Umden Road. A search revealed four elephant tusks, suspected to be from the Asiatic elephant, prompting the arrest of Tras Khymdeit and Wilshon Khymdeit under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Further action was taken on August 2, 2026, in Shakhoikuna village. This operation resulted in the recovery of two polythene bags containing suspected pangolin scales from three individuals. While one suspect evaded capture, Benedick Khymdeit and Rupai Ingti were apprehended. Both seizures are being investigated further under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, underscoring the persistent threat to India's protected biodiversity.
