Major Wildlife Smuggling Operation in Guwahati Leads to Arrest

Significant Wildlife Seizure in Guwahati

Guwahati, Sep 28: Following a tip-off, a coordinated operation involving the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Forest Department, and local police resulted in the seizure of a complete tiger skin, including its head, teeth, jaws, and nails, along with eight deer skins. This operation took place at the residence of Ananda Ram Deka, aged 46, located in Joytipath, Bhetapara, under the jurisdiction of Hatigaon Police Station.

The confiscated items, along with the detained individual, have been handed over to the Forest Department for further proceedings.

According to sources, Deka, who is reportedly a self-proclaimed god-man, pretended to be unwell immediately after the raid and was subsequently taken to GMCH for a medical evaluation. He is anticipated to be presented in court tomorrow.

A spokesperson noted, “It is uncommon to find a tiger skin in such a complete state, with all its features intact. The ongoing investigation is expected to uncover more details.”

During a press conference on January 6, SDGP Chief Harmeet Singh highlighted the need for stringent actions against poachers and wildlife traffickers.

He also discussed the connections between wildlife smuggling networks in the Northeast and terrorist organizations, mentioning that rhino horns are trafficked through Myanmar to finance terror activities.

In the last 20 months, the Special Task Force (STF) has apprehended six poachers and confiscated substantial wildlife contraband, including two rhino horns.