Mangaluru: The CID Forest Unit has arrested three persons for allegedly attempting to illegally sell elephant tusks near Jodukatte in Maroli, located in Padil village of the city. The operation led to the seizure of two elephant tusks weighing a total of 42.700 kg along with two cars allegedly used in the illegal wildlife trade.
The arrests were made during a targeted operation conducted by the CID Forest Mobile Squad following information about the suspected sale of wildlife contraband in the area.
Three accused taken into custody
The arrested individuals have been identified as Shashanka Puduvettu of Beltangady, Abdul Khader of Manjeshwar and Prabhachandra of Attavar.
According to officials, the trio was allegedly involved in an attempt to illegally trade elephant tusks, which are protected wildlife articles under Indian law. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the CID Forest Unit launched a surveillance and interception operation that resulted in their arrest.
The accused were taken into custody for further questioning and investigation into the source and intended sale of the seized tusks.
Elephant tusks weighing over 42 kg seized
During the raid, officers recovered two elephant tusks weighing a combined 42.700 kg from the possession of the accused.
In addition to the wildlife contraband, police also seized two cars believed to have been used for transporting or facilitating the illegal transaction.
Officials have not yet disclosed the estimated market value of the seized tusks. However, wildlife authorities consider elephant ivory trafficking a serious offence due to its link with poaching and illegal wildlife trade networks.
The seized items have been taken into official custody and will form part of the ongoing investigation.
CID Forest Unit conducts operation
The operation was carried out under the guidance of Pavan Nejjur, IPS, Superintendent of Police, CID Forest Unit, Bengaluru and Madikeri.
The raid was led by Dilip G.R., Police Sub-Inspector of the CID Forest Mobile Squad, Mangaluru. Members of the team included Jayaram K.T., Balakrishna K.M., Taranath S. and Abdul Rauf, who participated in the successful operation.
Officials said the action reflects the department’s continued efforts to curb wildlife crimes and dismantle illegal trade networks operating in the region.
Investigation underway
Authorities are now investigating how the accused obtained the elephant tusks and whether they are linked to a larger ivory trafficking network operating within or outside the state.
Investigators are also examining the origin of the tusks and identifying any additional individuals involved in the alleged illegal trade.
Wildlife offences involving elephant ivory are punishable under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, and officials have reiterated their commitment to taking strict action against those engaged in wildlife trafficking.
The arrests and seizure mark a significant breakthrough in efforts to combat illegal ivory trade and protect endangered wildlife species from exploitation.