Railway Protection Force (RPF) officers have apprehended a major wildlife trafficking attempt, seizing 78 live turtles from the Doon Express. The operation, codenamed ‘Operation WILEP’, led to the recovery of the Indian flapshell turtles from the women’s compartment of the Yog Nagari Rishikesh-Howrah train (13010) on Friday. The value of the seized wildlife is estimated to be around 7.8 lakh rupees.
The RPF received credible intelligence suggesting the rampant smuggling of endangered species within the train. A dedicated task force was deployed to intercept the train at Dhanbad. A meticulous search of the women’s coach led to the discovery of six bags stashed away under a seat.
As no passenger came forward to claim the bags, RPF personnel proceeded to open them. Inside, they discovered the live turtles, all alive and packed tightly in sacks. Authorities have confiscated all the turtles and are pursuing legal action under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The Forest Department was brought in to manage the rescued animals, which were handed over to the Dhanbad Forest Range Officer. Authorities are now working to identify and apprehend the smugglers responsible for this illegal trade.