Guwahati: Security forces rescued eight golden langurs during a joint operation in Assam’s Chirang district. The raid, which took place in Kajalgaon, involved personnel from local police stations and the Guwahati Special Task Force acting on intelligence reports.
Officials believe the endangered primates were taken from the Ultapani Reserve Forest, a key habitat for the species. While the rescue team initially secured eight animals, one langur died shortly after recovery. The seven survivors are currently receiving care and monitoring from the Forest Department as part of a rehabilitation process.
Authorities detained nine individuals in connection with the incident, including three locals from Bengtol, five residents of West Bengal, and one Bangladeshi national. Investigators are looking into potential cross-border smuggling links and the intended destination of the captured animals.
Golden langurs are strictly protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Explaining the legal gravity of the case, officials noted that the species faces ongoing threats from habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Police are continuing their investigation to dismantle the broader trafficking network involved in this crime.
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