Malkangiri: Forest officials, in coordination with Motu police, seized 55 live flapshell turtles and arrested four alleged wildlife traffickers during a raid in Malkangiri district, officials said.
Acting on reliable information about illegal transportation of wildlife, a joint team of the Motu police and Motu Forest Range intercepted two motorcycles near the canal road close to MPV-53 village on Wednesday.
During a search of the vehicles, officials found 55 live flapshell turtles being transported illegally. The two motorcycles, along with the turtles, were seized on the spot.
Four persons allegedly involved in the illegal transportation were apprehended and arrested in connection with the seizure.
The Motu Forest Range has registered forest case No. OR 20 of 2026-27 under relevant provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, for illegal possession and transportation of wildlife.
The rescued flapshell turtles are being provided necessary care, while further investigation into the wildlife trafficking case is underway, officials said.
