In a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has made a substantial seizure at Mumbai's Nhava Sheva Port. The operation, conducted by the DRI's Mumbai zonal unit, uncovered a massive shipment of 28 lakh peacock tail feathers disguised as coir doormats. The feathers, valued at approximately ₹2.01 crore on the black market, were destined for China in violation of export regulations.
Illegal Export Unveiled
The intercepted cargo, initially labeled as innocent coir doormats, turned out to be a clever facade for smuggling peacock tail feathers, a prohibited item under India's Export Policy of ITC (HS), 2018, and the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the exporter had misdeclared the cargo in an attempt to evade detection.
Exporter's Arrest and Judicial Proceedings
Following the interception, the DRI detained the exporter for questioning. Under interrogation, the exporter confessed to their involvement in the illicit trade. Subsequently, a local court remanded them to judicial custody. Authorities are now intensifying efforts to unravel the intricate network of international wildlife trafficking, probing potential connections and unraveling the true motive behind the attempted smuggling of these coveted feathers to China.
Continued Efforts Against Wildlife Crime
This recent seizure adds to the DRI's ongoing efforts to combat wildlife crime. In previous incidents, the DRI intercepted an international wildlife smuggling operation, apprehending individuals attempting to smuggle foreign-origin snakes into the country. Similarly, they thwarted an attempt to smuggle hundreds of live exotic animals, including tortoises and turtles, into India from Thailand. These operations underscore the importance of vigilance and collaboration in preserving our natural heritage and combating illegal wildlife trade.
Similar incident in January
Meanwhile, in January 2024, a collaborative effort between local law enforcement and forestry officials culminated in the apprehension of three individuals in Jannod village, Neemuch, accused of unlawfully hunting and slaughtering five peacocks for consumption. The incident, falling under the jurisdiction of the Rampura police station, unfolded as villagers grew suspicious upon encountering a group near Mathuralal's farm in the forested expanse. Upon closer inspection, villagers noticed the suspects engaged in the plucking of peacock feathers, igniting concerns about their intentions. A subsequent investigation revealed the grim reality: the suspects were in possession of five deceased peacocks, prompting an urgent call to authorities. Acting swiftly, law enforcement, alongside forestry personnel, succeeded in recovering the deceased birds from the suspects' possession.
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