Vinod M Jain
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 180 live turtles allegedly being smuggled in Bengaluru and arrested one person in connection with the case.
Acting on information,DRI officials intercepted a person in Gandhinagar and took him into custody.
During a search of a green trolley bag allegedly being carried by the accused,officials found 180 live turtles concealed inside six cloth covers.
During questioning,the accused reportedly told officials that he had collected the trolley bag from Kalasipalya and was instructed to deliver the turtles to an unidentified person at Majestic.
The accused allegedly told investigators that he had been promised Rs.10,000 if the delivery was completed successfully.Officials suspect that he was involved in the operation for monetary gain.
The turtles have been seized and further investigation is underway to identify the intended recipient and determine whether others are involved in the alleged illegal wildlife trade.
Officials are also probing the source of the turtles and the larger network behind their transportation.
