DRI Nagpur Unit Cracks Down on Major Pangolin Trafficking Syndicate in Chhattisgarh
In a significant operation against wildlife crime, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Nagpur Regional Unit has successfully dismantled a major inter-state pangolin trafficking syndicate operating in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. The operation, conducted on Sunday, led to the recovery of multiple pangolin scales with a total weight of 17 kilograms.
Intelligence-Led Operation Nets Three Suspects
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a dedicated DRI team from the Mumbai zonal unit carried out the operation, resulting in the apprehension of three individuals directly involved in the illicit wildlife trade. The suspects were caught red-handed while allegedly engaging in the illegal trafficking of pangolin scales, which are highly valued in black markets for their purported medicinal properties and use in traditional practices.
Strict Legal Protection for Indian Pangolin
The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) is a critically endangered species that enjoys the highest level of protection under Indian law. It is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which strictly prohibits any form of trade, possession, or transportation of pangolins or their body parts. Violations of this act can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
A source from the DRI stated, "Any trade in pangolins or their body parts is strictly prohibited under Indian law. The seized scales and the arrested individuals have been formally handed over to the Forest Range Officer in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, for further legal proceedings and prosecution under the relevant wildlife protection statutes."
DRI Nagpur's Ongoing Crackdown on Wildlife Trafficking
This latest bust is part of a broader, sustained effort by the DRI Nagpur Regional Unit to combat wildlife trafficking across multiple states. Since 2025, the unit has been actively targeting and dismantling various syndicates involved in the illegal trade of protected species. Notable previous successes include:
- Busting networks dealing in leopard skins from Madhya Pradesh.
- Investigating a high-profile tiger cub poaching case in Seoni.
- Uncovering another pangolin scale trafficking racket in Pileru, Andhra Pradesh.
These operations highlight the DRI's commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and curbing the illegal trade that threatens India's biodiversity. The agency continues to leverage intelligence and inter-agency cooperation to track and apprehend those involved in these criminal activities.
