SIKKIM, Dec 6: Interpol has issued a Red Notice at India’s request against Yangchen Lachungpa, a resident of North Sikkim, for her alleged role in an organised wildlife trafficking network dealing in tiger and pangolin derivatives. The notice, issued on October 2, 2025, is linked to a case registered at Satpura Tiger Reserve in Sohagpur, Hoshangabad, Madhya Pradesh, dating back to July 2015.
Lachungpa faces charges under the Wildlife Protection Act for allegedly aiding the illegal trade of tiger bones, pangolin scales, and other wildlife parts. Case records indicate she allegedly sheltered prime accused trafficker Jaiy Tamang in New Delhi, and her mobile phone was purportedly used to facilitate trafficking activities. Interpol documents also list connections to other suspects detained in Nepal.
Authorities say a total of 27 people have been arrested in connection with the trafficking network, including Lachungpa. She was apprehended on September 15, 2017, by the Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Strike Force and later released on bail by a court in East Sikkim. However, she reportedly failed to appear in subsequent hearings, leading to proclamation proceedings to declare her absconding.
The Madhya Pradesh authorities have already filed a chargesheet, while the District Magistrate Court in Sohagpur continues to hear the case. Officials believe Lachungpa remains associated with a wider organised wildlife smuggling network, prompting India to seek international assistance through Interpol.
