Home / Environment / Rare Tortoise Trafficking Ring Busted in Multi-State Sting Operation
Rare Tortoise Trafficking Ring Busted in Multi-State Sting Operation
14 Nov
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
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.
A joint operation by the Ahmedabad Rural Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Forest Department led to the rescue of 10 tortoises. Authorities are now investigating the source of the animals and determining how many were sold through this illicit network. They are also identifying the buyers and examining the delivery pattern facilitated through the Rapido-like services.
The Indian Star Tortoise is a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Capturing, keeping, selling or hiding the animal is a punishable offense that can lead to 7 years' imprisonment and a fine of Rs 25,000.
