The Wildlife Crime Control Unit, Wildlife Division Dimapur, made a significant breakthrough during a routine market raid on May 7 at Lengrijan Tuesday Bazar, Dimapur. Two women, Rohila Ronghangpi (42 years) and Meena Enghipi (50 years), were apprehended with a total of 79 red-collared doves in their possession, according to a press release.
During the raid, the crime unit rescued 35 and 44 live red-collared doves from Rohila Ronghangpi and Meena Enghipi, respectively. Both individuals, identified as permanent residents of Monsing Teron Village, Dillai, Assam, have been detained by the Wildlife Crime Control Unit, Wildlife Division, Dimapur. They will be dealt with according to the relevant section of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
In response to the incident, the Wildlife Division, Dimapur, issued a public advisory urging individuals to refrain from buying, dealing with, or selling wild animals, birds, bushmeat, wildlife articles, trophies, etc. Additionally, they issued a stern warning against creating content related to hunting or trapping of wild animals and birds on social media platforms. Sharing or displaying wildlife items through social media could lead to serious consequences under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The Wildlife Division emphasized the vigilance of their dedicated team from the Wildlife Crime Control Unit, operating 24×7 to monitor such activities. They warned that any violations would be met with strict punishment, reinforcing their commitment to wildlife protection and conservation efforts.