IT News
Imphal, Nov 12:
The Central Forest Division, Government of Manipur in a bid to combat wildlife trafficking, successfully intercepted and seized a substantial consignment of 4 kilograms of Chinese pangolin (manis pentadactyla) a Schedule 1 protected animal scales yesterday at Chingmeirong Khongnang Karak general area, from the possession of Khuiramlungbou Kalengta aged 28 years S/o Akebou Kalengta of Lenglong Tamei, Tamenglong District. The accused was arrested for illegal transportation u/s 48A, illegal possession u/s 39(3) r/w 57, hunting u/s 9 r/w 2(16), and illegal trade u/s 49B punishable with 3-7 years imprisonment and a fine not less than 25,000 Rs u/s 51(1) of Wildlife protection Act 1972.
Pangolins, critically endangered due to illegal poaching driven by demand for their scales, are protected under national and international laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The scales are often trafficked globally for use in traditional medicine and as luxury items.
The Central Forest Division urges citizens to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife trafficking to help preserve natural heritage and biodiversity.
