Assam: Beaks of Oriental Pied Hornbill worth Rs 4 lakh seized in Rangapara, 1 arrested

A man identified as Marias Munda was arrested at Rangapara railway station after being found in possession of four beaks of Oriental Pied Hornbill, locally known as 'Dhanesh'.

The seized items, valued at approximately Rs 4 lakh, were discovered during a raid conducted by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) on the Lachit Express train.  

Acting on a tip-off, the RPF intercepted Munda, who was traveling from Udalguri to Harmati. The illegal wildlife contraband was confiscated, and Munda was promptly detained.  

Following the arrest, Munda was handed over to the Amribari Forest Department for further investigation. Authorities are probing the incident to uncover potential links to a larger wildlife trafficking network.  

Hornbills, known for their distinctive and valuable beaks, are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, making their possession, trade, or transport illegal without proper authorization. This seizure highlights the persistent threat of wildlife trafficking in the region.  

Forest and wildlife officials have reiterated their commitment to curbing illegal activities that endanger vulnerable species and have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities.