What is the Indian Star Tortoise?

The Indian Star Tortoise is a protected wildlife species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 in India.

How were the accused selling the Indian Star Tortoises?

The accused were selling the rare tortoises through an Instagram profile and delivering them to customers using Rapido-like services.

Home / Environment / Rare Tortoise Trafficking Ring Busted in Multi-State Sting Operation

Rare Tortoise Trafficking Ring Busted in Multi-State Sting Operation

Q: What happened during the joint operation by authorities?

A joint operation by the Ahmedabad Rural SOG and the Forest Department led to the arrest of 4 members of an inter-state gang involved in the illegal trade of the Indian Star Tortoise. 10 tortoises were rescued in the crackdown.

14 Nov

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Summary

4 members of inter-state gang arrested for illegal trade of protected Indian Star Tortoise
Tortoises sold through Instagram, delivered via Rapido-like services
10 tortoises rescued in joint operation by Ahmedabad Rural SOG and Forest Department

Rare Tortoise Trafficking Ring Busted in Multi-State Sting Operation

On November 14, 2025, authorities in Ahmedabad, India announced the arrest of 4 members of an inter-state gang involved in the illegal trade of the protected Indian Star Tortoise. The accused were exploiting the high demand for this rare, star-patterned species in the international wildlife market, where its price can reach up to Rs 1 lakh.

The gang had been advertising and selling the Schedule-I tortoises through an Instagram profile named "Ahmedabad_dog_lovers". After customers placed orders and transferred money online, the accused used Rapido-like delivery services to transport the animals to their doorsteps.