Valsad: In a strict crackdown against the illegal trade of wildlife organs in Valsad district, the Gujarat Forest Department, in a joint operation with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), today seized wildlife items including the skin of a leopard cub and arrested three individuals in this regard.

This action was carried out by integrated teams from the Valsad North Forest Department, Valsad South Forest Department, and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. The joint efforts reflect the strong commitment and vigilance of the Forest Department in preventing wildlife-related crimes in the region, said an official note.

Illegal trade in wildlife items is a serious offence under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, punishable with a fine of up to ₹1 lakh and imprisonment of up to seven years. In this case, the Lavkar Range has registered an offence under Sections 2, 9, 39, and 50 of the Act.

The Forest Department is conducting further investigations to uncover the full conspiracy and identify all those involved.

The department has also appealed to the public to report any suspicious activity and assist in conserving India’s rich natural heritage. DeshGujarat