73 endangered turtles rescued in Noakhali; 1 detained
However, they did not disclose the identity of the detainee
The Wildlife Crime Control Unit (WCCU) of the Forest Department rescued a total of 73 turtles of various endangered species from the Jamidarhat area under Begumganj upazila of Noakhali last night (20 May).
During the drive, they also detained a suspected trafficker of endangered turtules in this connection.
However, they did not disclose the identity of the detainee.
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Confirming the matter, Abdullah As Sadique, wildlife inspector of WCCU, said, "The rescued turtles include 25 Indian roofed turtles (Kori Kaitta), 42 Indian flapshell turtles (Sundhi Kasim), and 6 yellow-bellied turtles (Halud Kaitta), with a combined weight of approximately 80kg."
"During the operation, one suspected wildlife trafficker was caught red-handed. Preliminary questioning revealed that he had been regularly collecting turtles from local water bodies across Noakhali. He was preparing to smuggle them to a neighbouring country", he added.
Sadique said, "This activity is a punishable offense under Sections 6 and 34(b) of the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act 2012. The rescued turtles will undergo health examinations before being released back into their natural habitat."
The WCCU officials emphasised their ongoing vigilance in protecting endangered species and confirmed that such enforcement actions will continue in the future.
