Malkangiri: Forest officials of Malkangiri Forest Division seized 40 turtles and arrested one person for alleged wildlife trafficking on Wednesday.
Acting on reliable information regarding illegal wildlife transportation, officials of Mathli Range conducted a vehicle search near Baliguda Chowk towards Khariput.
During the operation, a Hero Honda Passion motorcycle bearing Registration No. OD-07A-5794 was intercepted and searched. Upon inspection, 40 turtles were found being transported illegally in the vehicle.
The vehicle along with all the turtles was seized on the spot. One accused person was apprehended and arrested in connection with the offence.
A forest case, OR 34MH OF 2026-27, has been registered under the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 for illegal possession and transportation of wildlife.
Officials said the rescued turtles are being provided necessary care and further investigation is underway.
