Three Arrested After Viral Video Shows Hornbill Killing in Assam

Guwahati: Assam Forest Department officials arrested three suspects late last night. The move followed a viral video showing men posing with a dead hornbill. The footage hit social media hard. It sparked immediate public anger across Tinsukia district.

Police teamed up with the Digboi Forest Division to track the suspects. They moved fast. The arrests took place hours after the clip emerged from the Inthem area. Authorities are still working to verify if the footage is real.

Conservationist Devajit Moran praised the sweep. He credited Divisional Forest Officer Rohini Kumar Das and local police for the quick response. “The prompt arrests send a strong message that crimes against wildlife will not go unpunished. Public cooperation remains crucial in protecting Assam’s invaluable biodiversity,” Moran said.

Officials have not named the suspects or listed specific charges yet. Investigators are searching for more evidence. They want to know if others joined in the hunt. Hornbills are protected by the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. They are vital for spreading seeds in forests like Dehing Patkai.