Rare Red Sand Boa rescued in Ranchi; Haryana man detained

A rare red sand boa snake was rescued in Ranchi’s Lalpur area after police recovered it from a bag carried by a man from Haryana. The Lalpur police informed the Forest Department, which has launched an investigation into the case.

Police had stopped three people on suspicion of suspicious activities. Two of them fled when they saw the police, while the third was detained. During a search, officers recovered the snake from his bag and alerted the Forest Department. A forest team subsequently rescued the snake safely.

The detained man, identified as Tilu, is a resident of Sonipat in Haryana. During questioning, he reportedly told forest officials that the snake belonged to his friend. Police and forest officials are investigating where the snake was sourced, why it was brought to Ranchi and what role the two absconding men played.

Ranchi Divisional Forest Officer Shrikant said the red sand boa is a rare species. The snake is often associated with claims of fetching extremely high prices in international markets, but reports of its alleged worth running into crores of rupees are not supported by any verified or standard market valuation.

The species has reportedly been targeted by illegal wildlife traders due to superstitions and traditional beliefs. In some countries, including China and parts of Southeast Asia, folklore and beliefs associated with traditional medicine have been cited as factors driving demand. Some people also associate the snake with wealth and good fortune.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the recovery and the possibility of illegal wildlife trade.