Assam Police dismantle international wildlife trafficking ring, rescue eight golden langurs

Guwahati: Assam Police dismantled an international wildlife trafficking network in the Chirang district this week, resulting in the arrest of nine suspects. The Special Task Force conducted the operation in Sidli, where they successfully recovered eight endangered golden langurs. These rare primates, native to parts of Assam and Bhutan, are strictly protected under Indian wildlife legislation.

Authorities confirmed that the detained group includes one Bangladeshi national, five individuals from West Bengal, and three local residents from Assam. Investigators suspect the suspects were part of a sophisticated syndicate managing illegal animal trade across state and international borders.

Regarding the group's activities, officials stated, "Police suspect the group was involved in an organized wildlife trafficking network operating across state and international borders." The rescued animals have since been transferred to forest department officials to undergo medical evaluations and rehabilitation. Law enforcement agencies are continuing their probe to identify additional members of the smuggling ring.