Three poachers apprehended in Mizoram for Wildlife violations

In a decisive move against wildlife crime, Mizoram’s efforts to protect its natural heritage resulted in the arrest of three individuals for violating the Wildlife Protection Act. Acting on precise intelligence, authorities intercepted the suspects en route to Tawi Wildlife Sanctuary, armed and evidently engaged in illegal hunting activities.Through coordinated patrols conducted by teams from Seling Forest Range and Tawi Wildlife Sanctuary, the poachers were apprehended in Tlungvel village. Upon search, authorities discovered a distressing array of evidence, including illegally hunted birds and squirrels, along with firearms and ammunition seized from the Phulmawi area of the village. The arrested individuals, Lalchhuanawma (33), H.S. Tlangkhuma (68), and Lalthazuala (41), all residents of Tlungvel Village in Aizawl District, were swiftly brought before the magistrate and detained overnight pending further legal proceedings.

The gravity of their actions was underscored by the significant number of wildlife casualties, including endangered species, with a total of 142 birds and specimens of seven different squirrel species found in their possession. Enforcement authorities reiterated the stringent penalties outlined in the Wildlife Protection Act, emphasizing a maximum prison term of three years and a fine of Rs. 25,000/-, with escalated consequences for offenses within protected areas. Prompted by suspicions that the poaching occurred within the sanctuary’s confines, authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the matter.

In parallel efforts to preserve Mizoram’s rich biodiversity, Conservation Mizoram, in collaboration with the Sailam Ecological Conservation Society, recently conducted the Mizoram Bird Census, Chapchar Awllen Sava Chhiarpui 2024 (CASC2024), documenting approximately 200 bird species across the region. Notably, among these is the Mount Victoria Babax, a unique avian species exclusive to Mizoram’s Mt. Phawngpui area.