Tamil Nadu Forest Officials Rescue Endangered Slender Lorises from Illegal Rituals in Mettupalayam
In a significant wildlife protection operation, the Tamil Nadu Forest and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (TNFWCCB) from the Coimbatore zone has successfully rescued two endangered slender lorises from illegal captivity in Mettupalayam. The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence inputs, leading to the discovery of these nocturnal primates being allegedly used for illicit good luck charms.
Intelligence from Foreign Tourist Leads to Operation
According to forest department sources, the illegal possession of the slender lorises came to light following crucial information provided by a foreign tourist. The tourist had reportedly visited the Mettupalayam area to learn about devaangu sastram, a traditional practice where these endangered animals are used to bless good luck charms. Acting swiftly on this lead, a special team from the TNFWCCB conducted extensive surveillance and traced the animals to a private premises in Mettupalayam.
Details of the Ritual and Arrest
The accused, identified as K Sangarkrishnan, a 63-year-old resident of the area, was found keeping the slender lorises in captivity. Investigators revealed that the ritual involves a specific procedure:
- Placing a thread between the teeth of the loris
- Later tying this thread around a person's wrist
- Believing it to function as a holy thread for good luck
This practice not only violates wildlife protection laws but also poses a severe threat to the survival of these endangered species.
Health Assessment and Rescue Outcome
Following the successful rescue operation, a veterinary doctor from Sathyamangalam was brought to Mettupalayam to conduct a thorough health assessment of the slender lorises. The examination focused on detecting any injuries or signs of mistreatment. Officials confirmed that both animals were found to be in good health, which is a positive outcome given their illegal captivity.
The rescue highlights the ongoing efforts by Tamil Nadu's forest department to combat wildlife crimes and protect endangered species from exploitation. Such operations are crucial in raising awareness about the illegal wildlife trade and the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
