Mumbai : Thane Forest Department and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), with assistance from NGO Wildlife Welfare Association, conducted a joint raid at Mumbai’s Crawford Market on Friday, seizing a large number of illegally kept wild animals and birds.
The NGO played a crucial role by providing intelligence and on-ground support. A total of 112 rose-ringed parakeets — including 11 found dead — 67 Indian star tortoises, 16 Indian roofed turtles, 10 Alexandrine parakeets, 10 Indian tent turtles, 10 Indian eyed turtles, and one Indian softshell turtle were confiscated. Cases have been registered under various provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
All rescued animals and birds have been shifted to a safe facility for necessary medical checkups and care. Officials stated that similar joint operations will continue to curb the illegal wildlife trade.
“This seizure is a stern warning to wildlife traffickers. Illegal trade of protected species will not be tolerated,” said a senior forest official.
The seized animals remain under the forest department’s care and will be rehabilitated in accordance with wildlife protection guidelines.
