Elephant Tusks and Pangolin Scales seized
SHILLONG: Meghalaya's Forest Department has made significant strides in combating wildlife crime through two recent intelligence-driven enforcement operations carried out by the Nongpoh Wildlife Range, part of the Khasi Hills Wildlife Division in Ri Bhoi District. The first operation based on actionable intelligence from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) regarding illegal wildlife trade along the Nongpoh–Umden Road.
During this operation, wildlife enforcement personnel intercepted two suspects - Tras Khymdeit and Wilshon Khymdeit - both residents of Ri Bhoi District. A search yielded four elephant tusks believed to belong to the Asiatic Elephant (Elephas maximus).
Following the seizure of the wildlife items, the accused were arrested under the Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 and a case was registered at the Nongpoh Wildlife Range with further investigations underway.
The second operation took place at Shakhoikuna Villagealso in Ri Bhoi District. Three suspects were intercepted, leading to the recovery of two polythene bags containing items suspected to be pangolin scales.
The detainees Benedick Khymdeit from Ri Bhoi and Rupai Ingti from Kamrup, Assam, faced charges, while one managed to flee. These items were seized in accordance with the Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 and another separate case was filed at the Nongpoh Wildlife Range.
Both elephants and pangolins are considered among India's most protected wildlife under the same act with illegal trade in these species presenting a grave threat to biodiversity and natural heritage. The Meghalaya Forest Department asserts its commitment to tackling wildlife crime and urges the public to provide information regarding illegal activities related to wildlife.
The department urged people to report cases of hunting, possession, transportation, or trade of wildlife and wildlife products to local forest offices.