IMPHAL, Nov 12: Authorities from the Central Forest Division in Manipur have seized 4 kilograms of Chinese pangolin scales and arrested a suspected smuggler in Imphal. The individual, identified as Khuiramlungbou Kalengtan from Lenglong Tamei in Tamenglong District, was detained on November 11, 2024, at Chingmeirong Khongnang Karak in Imphal West district.
N Ganesh, the Divisional Forest Officer of the Central Forest Division, confirmed the arrest and seizure, which was part of an operation targeting the illegal transportation and trade of wildlife products. Kalengtan faces charges under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, for unlawful poaching and trafficking, carrying a potential sentence of 3 to 7 years in prison and fines of at least Rs 25,000 if found guilty.
Pangolins, which are critically endangered due to illegal poaching fueled by demand for their scales, are protected under both national and international laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The scales are frequently trafficked for use in traditional medicine and as luxury goods.
