Mumbai: In a major joint operation, theWildlifeSOS-WildlifeSOS-Gujarat Society for Prevention of Cruelty toAnimalsteam, in collaboration with the Gujarat Forest Department and theWildlifeCrime Control Bureau of Mumbai, has successfullyrescueda five-month-old maleleopardcub from the clutches ofwildlifesmugglers.
This operation comes after an extensive year and a half-long investigation into the illegalwildlifetrade by these smugglers, dealing in endangered species online.
Acting on crucial information, a decoy customer was dispatched to engage with smugglers trying to sell a five-month-old maleleopardcub,who were ultimately apprehended in Jadhadia village in Bharuch district of Gujarat, according to aWildlifeSOS statement issued in Mumbai.
During a search conducted at the residence of the smugglers, theleopardcub was discovered in a distressing state. The feline was immediately handed over to the care of the Gujarat Forest Department to ensure its safety and well-being.
Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO ofWildlifeSOS, said: “This operation is a testament to the dedication of organisations and individuals working tirelessly to combat the illegalwildlifetrade. Therescueof theleopardcub is a victory for conservation and a step
forward in our ongoing efforts to protect endangered species.”
Geeta Seshmani, Co-founder and Secretary,WildlifeSOS, said: “WildlifeSOS works to curb the illegal trade and trafficking ofwildlifeby running an anti-poaching squad, Forest Watch, which consists of a complex network of informants gathering critical information on poachers and criminals involved in the illegalwildlifetrade.”
Meenaben Parmar, Range Forest Officer, Jadhadia, Bharuch, said, “In this joint operation, we not onlyrescuedaleopardcub but also showcased the strength of collaboration in the fight againstwildlifetrafficking.”
Raj Bhavsar, Project Coordinator atWildlifeSOS and President of GSPCA, said: “WildlifeSOS-GSPCA actively collaborates with enforcement agencies to combat poaching and trafficking ofwildanimals. Our shared goal is to eliminate the illegalwildlifetrade andprovide these magnificent creatures with the protection they deserve.”
(Published 31 October 2023, 19:29 IST)