CBI-DRI joint operation busts inter-state wildlife trafficking racket

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Mumbai, with help from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) teams in Mumbai and Kolkata, worked together to break up an inter-state wildlife trafficking group. They rescued 53 protected animals and birds and arrested six people.

The rescued animals and birds include 15 Slow Lorises, 2 Binturongs, 28 Star Tortoises, 6 Egyptian Vultures, and 2 Shikra birds. These species are all listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which gives them the highest legal protection in India. Trading, possessing, or hunting these animals is strictly banned and can lead to up to seven years in jail and heavy fines.

A CBI spokesperson said the operation took place at several locations in Maharashtra and West Bengal. It was based on information from DRI Mumbai about a criminal group involved in illegally sourcing and trading these protected animals. The animals and birds came from different parts of India and were meant for the illegal wildlife trade. The CBI filed two cases on July 7 and 8, 2026. Three people were arrested in Mumbai and three in Kolkata.

The cases were filed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and for criminal conspiracy under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. After the initial legal steps, the rescued animals were handed over to the Forest Departments in Maharashtra and West Bengal for safekeeping, health checks, and rehabilitation.

This successful operation shows how working together across agencies is helping to fight wildlife trafficking. The DRI, which is usually known for combating smuggling and economic crimes, has begun focusing more on wildlife crime because it is often linked to organised groups.

The CBI adds its experience in handling complex interstate and conspiracy cases, while the WCCB offers expertise in wildlife laws and species identification. Wildlife trafficking is still a major threat to India’s biodiversity. Animals like the Slow Loris, Binturongs, Indian Star Tortoises, Egyptian Vultures, and Shikra birds are often targeted by illegal traders. The investigation is still underway.

Agencies are now trying to track the entire supply chain, identify additional members of the group, and determine whether there are any international connections. These joint efforts show that wildlife crime will be met with quick and coordinated action. This operation is a reminder that protecting India’s natural heritage and combating wildlife trafficking remain very important.