Mumbai: The Chembur Police have arrested four individuals for allegedly attempting to sell elephant tusks worth Rs 3.5 crore at a hotel in Chembur. Acting on a tip-off, the police laid a trap at the Lodging and Boarding hotel on A.C. Road on Tuesday. The team raided Room No. 304 and apprehended the accused in possession of two elephant tusks.
Details of the Arrest
The arrested persons have been identified as Akash Ahir (28), Sandeep Bidlani (33), Shashank Jangam (38), and Dinesh Nivanshi (40). According to police officials, the accused were in the middle of negotiating a deal when they were caught. The tusks, weighing approximately 11 kg and 20.6 kg respectively, were seized along with other materials used in the transaction.
Legal Action
A case has been registered against the four accused under the Wildlife Protection Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The police have initiated further investigation to trace the origin of the tusks and identify any other individuals involved in the illegal wildlife trade network.
The seizure of elephant tusks highlights the ongoing issue of poaching and illegal trade of endangered species. Authorities have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife crimes. The Chembur Police have commended the team for their swift action in preventing the sale of these contraband items.
Further updates on the case are expected as the investigation progresses. The accused remain in police custody pending further legal proceedings.
