A joint operation conducted by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Ahmedabad Rural Police and the Forest Department has led to the arrest of four individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal trade of Indian star tortoises. The raid resulted in the rescue of 10 Indian star tortoises, a species protected under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and sought after in the international wildlife market.
According to authorities, the alleged trafficking network utilized an Instagram account, 'Ahmedabad_dog_lovers', to connect with buyers, with payments reportedly processed via UPI. The arrested individuals include Mukesh Dileep Soni, identified as the handler of the Instagram account; Shubham Sunil Notwani, who reportedly has a prior arrest for trafficking protected animal species; Yashwantsinh Rajendrasinh Chauhan, described as a liaison between clients and sellers; and Sanket Mahesh Sonawane, who allegedly facilitated deliveries through a mobile application. Police reports indicate that over 50 Indian star tortoises may have been traded through this network. The operation was initiated following technical surveillance by a team led by SOG Police Inspector Satish Ramani and Range Forest Officer (RFO) Rajendrasinh Vaghela. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing concerning the illegal trade of the Indian star tortoise (Geochelone elegans).
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/animals-tortoise-trafficking-racket-forest-dept-police-10363922/