The CBI has registered a case against unknown persons after recovery of dried sea cucumbers from Lakshadweep. The offence relates to recovery of three dead sea cucumbers on February 14 this year. The recovered wildlife consignment weighed 540 grams.
The case has been registered under various cognisable sections of Wildlife (Protection) Act and under 120-B (criminal conspiracy of the Indian Penal Code)
On February 14, 2020 after collection of all non-biodegradable wastes from waste collection bins placed at different parts of Agatti Island in Lakshadweep by municipal staff, it was transported to the Central Garbage Depository at Agatti Island, reads the FIR.
At the time of garbage segregation, three dried sea cucumbers were found in the non-biodegradable waste. Following the recoveries, the Sea Cucumbers Protection Task Force was informed and the agency took possession of the recoveries.
Hunting or possession of sea cucumbers is a penal offence under the Wildlife (Protection) Act as it is a protected species under the Act. Sea cucumbers considered vital for the fragile ecology of the islands.