In a major breakthrough against wildlife trafficking, the Central Forest Division, Government of Manipur, has arrested a man for illegally transporting Chinese pangolin scales, a Schedule I protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The incident took place in the Chingmeirong Khongnang Karak general area, where officials seized a consignment containing 4 kilograms of pangolin scales. The accused has been identified as Khuiramlungbou Kalengta, aged 28, son of Akebou Kalengta, from Lenglong Tamei in Tamenglong District.
Khuiramlungbou Kalengta has been charged under multiple sections of the Wildlife Protection Act:
Section 48A – Illegal transportation of wildlife products
Section 39(3) read with 57 – Illegal possession
Section 9 read with 2(16) – Hunting of protected species
Section 49B – Illegal trade
These offences are punishable under Section 51(1) with imprisonment ranging from 3 to 7 years and a fine of not less than Rs5,000.
The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) is listed as critically endangered and is protected under both Indian law and international agreements, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Their scales are often trafficked for use in traditional medicine and as luxury items, driving them toward extinction.
The Central Forest Division urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving wildlife to help conserve India’s biodiversity and natural heritage.
