📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Dr. Chinchu C.
Crime
Police arrest suspect in Pathankot rare bird smuggling operation
✍️ Amar Ujala · Jalandhar
🗓 29 Aug 2026, 07:03 PM
👁 3
Punjab police detained a man suspected of illegally trafficking rare bird species from Pathankot, according to Amar Ujala.
Punjab police announced the arrest of a suspect in Pathankot on charges of smuggling protected bird species. The operation was carried out by a team of wildlife crime investigators who intercepted the individual while he was attempting to transport the birds out of the city.
Authorities said the birds involved belong to several endangered categories listed under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, making their trade a serious offence. The suspect is alleged to have been part of a network that sources rare avian specimens from remote forest areas and sells them in the black market.
A police spokesperson confirmed that the arrested person will face charges under sections pertaining to illegal wildlife trade and that a detailed forensic examination of the seized birds is underway. The investigation remains ongoing to identify any co‑conspirators and to dismantle the broader smuggling ring.
The case highlights growing concerns over wildlife trafficking in northern India, where poachers increasingly target high‑value species for domestic and international buyers. Officials have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to the illegal trade of protected fauna.
Authorities said the birds involved belong to several endangered categories listed under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, making their trade a serious offence. The suspect is alleged to have been part of a network that sources rare avian specimens from remote forest areas and sells them in the black market.
A police spokesperson confirmed that the arrested person will face charges under sections pertaining to illegal wildlife trade and that a detailed forensic examination of the seized birds is underway. The investigation remains ongoing to identify any co‑conspirators and to dismantle the broader smuggling ring.
The case highlights growing concerns over wildlife trafficking in northern India, where poachers increasingly target high‑value species for domestic and international buyers. Officials have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to the illegal trade of protected fauna.