📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Anup Sadi
Crime
45 Live Turtles Seized from Rishikesh-Doon Express at Gaya Junction, Probe Launched
✍️ Amar Ujala · Gaya
🗓 16 Sep 2026, 12:15 PM
👁 7
During a joint raid by RPF, GRP and CPDS at Gaya Junction, officials recovered 45 live turtles hidden in two sacks and a pitthu bag inside a sleeper coach of the Rishikesh-Doon Express.
Gaya Junction in Bihar became the scene of a coordinated operation by the Railway Protection Force (RPF), the Gujarat Railway Police (GRP) and the Central Police Department of Security (CPDS). The teams inspected the sleeper coach of the Rishikesh-Doon Express and uncovered two sacks and a traditional pitthu bag containing forty‑five live turtles. The reptiles were found in a neglected state, prompting immediate veterinary care.
Authorities have opened a criminal investigation focusing on wildlife smuggling. The presence of the turtles in a passenger train suggests an attempt to transport the protected species across state borders, violating the Wildlife Protection Act. Investigators are tracing the origin of the luggage and questioning passengers and railway staff.
The seizure underscores growing concerns over illegal wildlife trade routes that exploit India's extensive rail network. Officials have pledged to tighten security checks on long‑distance trains and to collaborate with forest departments to prevent similar incidents.
No arrests have been reported yet, but the case is being forwarded to the state crime branch for further action. The rescued turtles will be handed over to a wildlife rehabilitation centre for rehabilitation and eventual release.
Authorities have opened a criminal investigation focusing on wildlife smuggling. The presence of the turtles in a passenger train suggests an attempt to transport the protected species across state borders, violating the Wildlife Protection Act. Investigators are tracing the origin of the luggage and questioning passengers and railway staff.
The seizure underscores growing concerns over illegal wildlife trade routes that exploit India's extensive rail network. Officials have pledged to tighten security checks on long‑distance trains and to collaborate with forest departments to prevent similar incidents.
No arrests have been reported yet, but the case is being forwarded to the state crime branch for further action. The rescued turtles will be handed over to a wildlife rehabilitation centre for rehabilitation and eventual release.