DRI officials intercept illegal elephant tusk trade

DRI officials arrest seven individuals in Bengaluru

A total of 6.8 kg of elephant tusks were seized

Customs officers from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted an illegal elephant tusk trade in Bengaluru and arrested seven individuals. The DRI officers claimed to have disrupted the efforts of a syndicate involved in the illicit trade of elephant tusks with the apprehension of these suspects on the outskirts of Bengaluru.

The interception occurred when three suspects were stopped in an autorickshaw recently. During the search, DRI officers discovered ivory tusks concealed in a large bag in their possession. Swift action ensued, leading to the arrest of four more individuals linked to facilitating the illegal trade, as announced by the Ministry of Finance in a statement.

A total of 6.8 kg of elephant tusks were seized under Section 50 of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972. The statement confirmed the arrest of all seven individuals involved in the illicit activity.

The statement further highlighted recent amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act, effective from April 1, 2023. These amendments grant DRI officers enhanced powers to combat domestic illegal wildlife trade, augmenting their existing role in anti-smuggling and counter-trafficking efforts across international borders.

Utilizing these new provisions, DRI officers are actively involved in operations to intercept and combat the illicit wildlife trade within the country.