Imphal: In a coordinated effort, the Forest Department of Manipur, with the assistance of local police, successfully intercepted a major wildlife trafficking operation in Imphal.
On September 23, 2023, the District Wildlife Warden and Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Central Forest Division imposed a fine of ₹2,00,000 on an individual involved in the illegal trade of live wildlife, under Section 54 of the Wildlife Protection Act.
A day earlier, on September 22, 2024, a team from Lamphel Police arrested a resident of Moreh Ward No. 4, currently residing in Langol Game Village, Zone-IV, Lamphel Police Station, during routine frisking and checking operations. The individual was found in possession of two wild animals. Both the accused and the animals were handed over to Kiranjit Yumnam, Range Forest Officer of the Sadar West Range, Central Forest Division.
Following instructions from Divisional Forest Officer N. Ganesh (IFS), the Range Forest Officer and his team took custody of the two seized animals—a Banded Palm Civet (Hemigalus derbyanus) and a White-browed Black Langur (Trachypithecus laotianus), both listed under Schedule-IV Appendix 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act. These species are known to be trafficked across borders, including from Laos.
The animals were transferred to the Manipur Zoological Garden for health inspection, care, and safe custody. A Wildlife Offence Case has been registered by the Divisional Forest Officer, Central Forest Division.
Wildlife trafficking, the illegal trade of wild animals and plants, whether live or as specimens or parts, has severe global repercussions. It threatens biodiversity, economies, governance, and public health. This transnational crime often involves poaching, smuggling, and the illegal capture of protected species.
In India, international wildlife trafficking is primarily routed through the northeastern border and airports. The demand for exotic pets—such as cockatoos, macaws, and grey parrots—drives much of the trade. In addition, Indian birds, reptiles, and fish are in high demand in global pet markets.
The DFO and the Range Forest Officer urged the public to report any information on wildlife trading, including illegal trading of animals or trophies, as these activities are prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Such information is crucial for prosecuting offenders and curbing wildlife trafficking. They also thanked the SP of Imphal West and the Officer-in-Charge of Lamphel Police Station for their support and coordination in this successful operation.
