Assam: Pangolin scales seized in Dima Hasao, four held

Haflong: In a major breakthrough against illegal wildlife trade, Assam forest department in close collaboration with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), seized a huge quantity of pangolin scales and apprehended four individuals involved in the illicit trafficking of wildlife parts in Dima Hasao district.

Dima Hasao Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Tuhin Langthasa said the operation was conducted within the Dima Hasao district and constitutes a critical step in curbing the rampant exploitation of endangered species.

DFO Langthasa underscored the department's unwavering commitment to protecting biodiversity and reiterated that strict legal action would be pursued against all perpetrators engaged in wildlife crimes.

Pangolins are primarily targeted for their scales, which are utilized in traditional medicine and illegal markets. As a species protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, the trade of their parts is a strictly punishable offense.

WCCB is continuing their investigation to uncover the broader network behind this trafficking operation and strongly encourage public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities related to wildlife.