The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Nagpur Regional Unit, has busted an illegal wildlife trafficking syndicate in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district, rescuing several protected and endangered species during an operation carried out on June 24 and 25, 2026.
Animals Seized in Srikakulam
Officials said the operation began with the interception of a suspect in Srikakulam city, where enforcement teams recovered four Malabar Giant Squirrels, one Indian Star Tortoise and fourteen Jungle Fowl. The animals were found confined in cages under allegedly illegal conditions.
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The seized species are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which grants the highest level of protection and prohibits hunting, possession, transport and trade.
Remote Village Search
Following the initial interception, DRI officers expanded the operation on the basis of inputs gathered during interrogation. The team then moved to a remote location in Rayakurdi village, about 60 kilometres from Srikakulam.
Despite difficult terrain, lack of electricity and the absence of mobile network connectivity, officers continued the late-night search and rescued two Small Indian Civet babies from the site. The animals were later taken into custody under the Wildlife (Protection) Act and handed over to the Forest Department in Srikakulam for further action.
Probe Into Wider Links
Investigators believe the syndicate was involved in the illegal supply of wildlife species sought in the exotic pet trade and by private collectors. Officials said species such as the Malabar Giant Squirrel, Indian Star Tortoise and Small Indian Civet are often targeted because of their rarity and commercial value in illegal wildlife markets.
The DRI said the operation underlined its continued focus on intelligence-based enforcement against wildlife trafficking networks operating across states. It added that coordination with the state forest department and other enforcement agencies was crucial to the success of the operation.
Authorities said further investigation is underway to identify other members of the network and to trace possible interstate or cross-border links connected to the racket. The agency has also urged the public to share information on illegal wildlife trade with enforcement authorities.
