Guwahati, 24th September: In a significant breakthrough, a joint operation by the Assam Police and the Forest Department led to the rescue of two Indian flapshell turtles in Kamrup district. The turtles, reportedly being trafficked from *Kaziranga National Park, were intercepted late Monday night at *Amingaon Industrial Park.
Authorities arrested *two individuals, both from Chhattisgarh, who were involved in the illegal transportation. The turtles, classified as a *protected species under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, were being smuggled out of Kaziranga with plans to transport them to Chhattisgarh.
The arrest took place after a truck registered in Chhattisgarh was stopped and inspected. The individuals were charged under India’s stringent wildlife protection laws for their role in the attempted trafficking.
Indian flapshell turtles play a vital role in *maintaining aquatic ecosystems, and their illegal capture and trade pose a significant threat to biodiversity. This incident underscores ongoing efforts in Assam to *combat wildlife trafficking and safeguard endangered species.
*Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity, including the famous **one-horned rhinoceros, continues to face threats from poachers and traffickers. The rescue of these turtles highlights the urgent need for *increased surveillance and protection within the park.
The rescued turtles will be handed over to wildlife officials for *rehabilitation, while the arrested individuals await trial. Assam’s authorities are stepping up efforts to curb illegal wildlife activities, especially in protected areas like *Kaziranga National Park, where safeguarding endangered species remains a top priority.
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