Malkangiri: In a major wildlife trafficking crackdown, Forest Department officials of Motu in Malkangiri district on Tuesday seized 1,078 turtles that were being smuggled into Odisha from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. The seizure took place near the Andhra-Odisha border late this evening.
The turtles were found concealed inside 25 poly bags in an SUV, reportedly headed towards different parts of Malkangiri district, where there is high local demand for turtle meat.
Acting on a tip-off, Forest officials intercepted the vehicle and arrested three individuals, including the prime accused, Sukumar Tarafdar.
The market value of the seized turtles is estimated to be around ₹4 lakh, officials said.
Forest authorities have stated that the rescued turtles will be safely released into a suitable water body. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of illegal wildlife trade in the region, particularly driven by the growing black market for turtle meat.
The Forest Department is continuing its investigation to identify the broader network behind the smuggling operation.
