Chirang (Assam), 20 June (HS): In a significant breakthrough against wildlife crime, the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police has busted an alleged cross-border animal trafficking network in Chirang district, leading to the arrest of nine suspected smugglers and the rescue of eight endangered golden langurs.

The operation was carried out during a late-night raid along National Highway-27 in the Sidli area. Acting on specific intelligence, STF personnel from Guwahati, in coordination with Sidli Police, intercepted a Mahindra Scorpio and a Tata Nano that were being used to transport the protected primates.

Officials said eight golden langurs were rescued alive, while one animal was found dead inside the vehicles. Preliminary findings indicate that the langur died due to the cruel and unsafe conditions in which the animals were being transported.

Among those arrested are a Bangladeshi national, five residents of West Bengal and three individuals from Assam, pointing to the existence of an interstate and international trafficking network. Investigators suspect that the animals were illegally captured from the recently notified Chikna Jwhwlao National Park in Chirang district.

According to preliminary investigations, local forest encroachers may have trapped the langurs before selling them to members of the trafficking syndicate. Security agencies are examining possible links between local operatives and cross-border wildlife smugglers.

The golden langur, one of India's rarest primate species, is found only in western Assam and parts of southern Bhutan. The species enjoys the highest level of protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

The rescued langurs have been handed over to the Assam Forest Department for veterinary examination, rehabilitation and further care. Meanwhile, STF officials, with support from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), have intensified efforts to identify and apprehend other members of the organized trafficking network. Investigations are continuing.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash