18 Indian star tortoises rescued in Surat; two detained in decoy operation

Surat: The forest department rescued 18 Indian star tortoises from a residence in the city on Thursday and detained two people for their alleged involvement in the illegal trade of the protected species.

The action followed intelligence shared by the Wildlife Trust of India about the alleged sale of Indian star tortoises at a shop named “Surat Enterprise”. The species is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

Officials and volunteers conducted a decoy operation by posing as customers. During the operation, shopkeeper Dinesh Thakore allegedly contacted Mohammad Azhar Shaikh, who confirmed that tortoises were available at his residence in Gopipura.

Officials monitored the transaction and intercepted the animals when they were brought to the shop, rescuing all 18 tortoises and detaining the two accused.

Investigators said Indian star tortoises are frequently trafficked illegally, including through online channels, with prices allegedly ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹1 lakh, depending on their size and age.

“It seems this is a wider network involving many people. The accused will be produced in court to seek their custody and questioned to determine the roles of others involved,” said Dhiraj Kumar, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Surat. DeshGujarat