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311 Endangered Turtles Seized From AC First-Class Coach in Bhopal

Bhopal: In a major crackdown on wildlife trafficking, authorities seized 311 endangered turtles from an AC First-Class coach of a train passing through Bhopal. The turtles were allegedly being smuggled as part of an inter-state wildlife trafficking syndicate.

311 Endangered Turtles

Coach Attendant Held

The turtles were recovered from coach attendant Ajay Singh Rajput, who officials claim was acting as a courier for the smuggling network. Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of the Government Railway Police (GRP) and forest officials conducted a search of the compartment and discovered the reptiles packed in bags and plastic containers.

Preliminary investigation suggests that Rajput was transporting the turtles to another state on behalf of the syndicate in exchange for money. He has been taken into custody for questioning.


Turtles Packed in Inhumane Conditions

Officials said the turtles were tightly packed without adequate ventilation or water, raising serious concerns about animal cruelty. Many of the reptiles appeared weak and dehydrated due to the cramped and stressful conditions of travel.

Veterinary experts were called in to examine the seized turtles, and arrangements were made to transfer them to a safe rescue facility for rehabilitation.


Wildlife Protection Laws Invoked

A case has been registered under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The seized species are believed to be protected under various schedules of the Act, making their capture, transport, and trade illegal without proper authorization.

Forest department officials stated that turtle trafficking is often linked to illegal pet trade markets and, in some cases, for consumption and traditional medicine.


Probe Into Wider Network

Authorities are now investigating the larger network behind the smuggling attempt. They suspect that the syndicate may have connections in multiple states and could be involved in similar wildlife crimes.

Officials said further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses, and efforts are underway to identify both the source and intended destination of the turtles.


The incident once again highlights the persistent threat posed by wildlife trafficking and the need for increased vigilance on railway routes frequently used by smugglers.

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