India's CBI and DRI dismantle wildlife smuggling ring, rescue 53 protected animals

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) carried out a joint operation in Mumbai and Kolkata on 7‑8 July, targeting an interstate wildlife‑trafficking network. The raid, conducted with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, led to the rescue of 53 protected animals and birds, including 15 slow lorises, 2 binturongs, 28 star turtles, 6 Egyptian vultures and 2 hawk‑type birds.

Six suspects were arrested – three in Mumbai and three in Kolkata – and charged under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the Indian Penal Code, 2023, for criminal conspiracy. The confiscated fauna were handed over to the forest departments of Maharashtra and West Bengal for safekeeping, while the investigation continues.

Authorities described the operation as a demonstration of inter‑agency cooperation to break wildlife‑smuggling networks and enforce strict protection provisions for endangered species.