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Rare Birds Rescued from Trafficking Syndicate in India
22 Oct
Summary
- 12 rare birds stolen from rescue facility in Karjat, India
- Birds sold to breeder in Chennai before authorities intervened
- Rescued birds found malnourished and traumatized
On October 22nd, 2025, Indian authorities announced the successful dismantling of a bird trafficking syndicate that had been operating in the country. The investigation began after 12 rare birds, including macaws, cockatoos, and African grey parrots, were stolen from a rescue facility in Karjat.
The birds had been under the care of the Riwild Sanctuary & Charitable Trust, but were stolen and sold to a breeder in Chennai. This triggered an investigation by the Raigad police, who eventually arrested a suspect and uncovered the larger trafficking operation.
Authorities were able to recover the stolen birds, but the damage had already been done. The animals had endured cramped cages, malnutrition, and significant trauma during their transport and captivity. Veterinarian Dr. Rina Dev, the owner of the Riwild Sanctuary, expressed her disappointment and heartbreak over the incident, stating that "all of them are underweight and traumatized."
