A CBI court in Lucknow has handed down a two-year prison term and a Rs 10,000 fine to six individuals involved in a wildlife smuggling case concerning tiger and leopard body parts. The convicted individuals, including Mumtaj Ahmad, Jaibun Nisha, Ajij Ullah, Waheed, Sartaj, and Majeed, were found guilty on March 30.
The case stems from a significant seizure during the investigation, where a substantial amount of prohibited wildlife items was discovered at the defendants’ residences. Among the seized items were 18,000 leopard nails, 74 leopard skins, four tiger skins, and bones from both tigers and leopards.
All confiscated items are classified under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which prohibits their possession, trade, and transportation. The CBI initiated the case in 2000, culminating in a charge sheet filed before a Lucknow court, establishing the accused’s involvement in organized wildlife smuggling and illegal trade.
The court convicted all six individuals under relevant sections of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and the Indian Penal Code, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to combating wildlife crimes and disrupting trafficking networks. The verdict aims to deter such offenses and contribute to the protection of endangered species.
The CBI’s active role in investigating wildlife crimes has led to convictions, including fines and imprisonment.
