Malkajgiri cops rescue 281 star tortoises, 160 red-eared slider tortoises from illegal sale; 2 held

Hyderabad: Based on credible information, the sleuths of the Special Operations Team, Malkajgiri Zone along with FRO Uppal apprehended two persons for smuggling star tortoises and red-eared slider tortoises to gain illegal money.

The police seized 281 star tortoises, 160 red-eared slider tortoises and other contraband with a total worth of Rs 64 lakhs approximately.

Case details

The accused has been identified as Shaik Jani, a resident of Adarsh Nagar, Peerzadiguda, Medipally who has been running an aquarium business and selling various species of fishes and birds.

The SOT Malkajgiri team raided the Famous Aquarium shop and found that Shaik Jani was selling star tortoises illegally and recovered five star tortoises from his possession. Later, SOT Malkajgiri called FRO Uppal officials to verify whether star tortoises can be sold in the market.

Later, FRO Uppal officials rushed to the spot and examined the tortoises and revealed that selling star tortoises is illegal according to the Wildlife Protection Act – 1972.

On questioning, Shaik Jani revealed that one person by the name Md. Siraj Ahmed sold him the star tortoises. Further SOT Malkajgiri Team along with FRO Uppal officials raided on New Shine Aquarium shop, Malakpet of Siraj and found 160 red-eared slider tortoises in the shop and 281 star tortoises in his secret godown.

Siraj Ahmed said that he along with one person by name Vijay Kumar hatched a plan of smuggling tortoises from AP state to Hyderabad to gain illegal money. As per their plan, Vijay Kumar used to smuggle tortoises from AP state to Hyderabad.

A case has been registered and further investigation is on.