In a major crackdown on wildlife trafficking, Khetasarai police arrested two interstate smugglers and seized 162 turtles and turtle shells weighing around 440 kg. The total value of the consignment is estimated at Rs6 lakh, police said on Sunday.
Acting on a tip-off, a police team intercepted two suspects near Khetasarai police station on Saturday evening. The accused were identified as Motilal and Mamta, both residents of Amethi district. They were found carrying 60 rare turtles packed into four backpacks.
During interrogation, the duo revealed that the turtles were picked up from the home of their gang leader, Mustaq, a resident of Khetasarai.
Following the lead, police raided Mustaq’s house and uncovered a massive stash:
102 live turtles hidden inside an underground water tank
13 sacks filled with turtle shells
However, Mustaq managed to flee the scene. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, and search operations are ongoing to apprehend the absconding gang leader.
“This is one of the largest wildlife seizures in the region in recent times,” said CP Shahganj Ajit Singh Chauhan, commending the swift police response.
