UP STF arrests wildlife smuggler and seize seven falcons worth Rs 14 crore in Lucknow

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF), along with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), arrested a wildlife smuggler in Lucknow and seized seven rare falcons. Officials estimated the international market value of the birds at approximately Rs 14 crore. Investigators stated that the operation was part of a major crackdown on an interstate wildlife trafficking syndicate dealing in protected bird species.

According to investigators, the arrested individual allegedly belonged to a network that procured prohibited birds from various forest areas in Uttar Pradesh, including Gorakhpur, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Sitapur. The syndicate reportedly routed the wildlife through Mumbai to supply foreign destinations such as Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. The seized falcons are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Authorities registered a case against the accused at the Madiaon police station under specific sections of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The STF stated that local police would handle further legal proceedings while investigations continue into other members of the interstate network involved in sourcing and transporting the protected birds.

Not yet reported: The articles do not mention whether other members of the syndicate have been identified or captured beyond the single arrested individual.