14 illegal elephant tusks seized

Dimapur, August 27, 2014: In yet another breakthrough against illegal wildlife trade in the North East region, the Nagaland Excise Department has apprehended a person at Khuzama check gate transporting 14 Elephant tusks from Shillong to Imphal.

A press release from Beizo Suokhrie, ACF, i/c Kohima Forest Range informed that the accused along with the seized items were handed over to the Forest Department officials by Katoho Sumi, Superintendent of Excise, Kohima on August 27.

In this regard, a case has been registered at Khuzama Police Station under the relevant sections of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Elephant being a schedule I animal under the Act, the release said, illegal possession of ivory tusk is an offence under section 40(II) and 44 of the Act, which is punishable with imprisonment of 3-7 years.

According to the release, the arrest may further unfurl information about a network of illegal wildlife trade suspected to be taking place in this region. Beizo Suokhrie has acknowledged the Excise Department, particularly Superintendent of Excise and Inspector of Excise Neiziezolie Angami for being proactive in the case.

Source: Morung Express