DRI Hyderabad seized four elephant tusks weighing around 17 kg and carved ivory articles during an alleged illegal sale transaction. Three persons were apprehended in the operation.
Hyderabad: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Hyderabad, has seized four elephant tusks weighing approximately 17 kg, along with intricately carved ivory articles, and apprehended three people allegedly involved in an illegal sale transaction.
Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers intercepted the suspects during the transaction and recovered the ivory items. The seized material included four elephant tusks and carved ivory articles described as trophies.
The items were seized under the relevant provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, under which trade and dealing in elephant ivory and articles made from it are prohibited.
According to the DRI, the operation was carried out after officers received specific information regarding the proposed sale of the ivory. The suspects were intercepted during the transaction, following which the wildlife articles were recovered and taken into custody.
The three persons were apprehended in connection with the alleged illegal sale. Further investigation is expected to establish the source of the ivory and the circumstances surrounding its possession and proposed transaction.
The seizure highlights enforcement efforts against the illegal trafficking and trade of protected wildlife and their derivatives. Elephant ivory remains subject to stringent legal restrictions in India, with authorities taking action against its unlawful possession, trade and movement.
The DRI said the Hyderabad operation forms part of its continuing efforts to combat wildlife crime and prevent the illegal trade of protected wildlife products.
Further investigation into the case is underway.
