Three Arrested After Viral Video Shows Illegal Hornbill Hunt

Guwahati: Assam forest officials arrested three men following a viral video that showed a dead hornbill. The men allegedly hunted the protected bird in the Inthem area of Tinsukia district. The clip showed a person posing with the carcass. It triggered anger among conservationists across the state.

The Digboi Forest Division launched an investigation immediately after the footage surfaced. Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah stated the department will not tolerate wildlife crimes. Officers are currently processing the case under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

Conservationist Devajit Moran condemned the act. He pushed for harsh penalties to stop future killings. "The killing of such a rare bird is not only an attack on wildlife but also on Assam’s priceless natural heritage. Exemplary punishment is essential to deter such crimes," Moran said.

Hornbills serve a key role in the ecosystem by spreading seeds. They live in the forests of Margherita and Dehing-Patkai. Despite their protected status, they face constant threats from illegal hunting and habitat loss. Authorities now urge the public to report crimes to rangers rather than spreading videos on social media.