Raid in Guwahati by Forest Dept leads to Tiger Skin, Wildlife Parts from Private Durga Temple

The Forest Department conducted a large-scale operation at a private Durga temple in the heart of Guwahati, Assam, on Saturday, seizing a tiger skin, deer antlers, and porcupine quills, along with cash worth several lakhs of rupees.

The raid targeted a Durga temple managed by its chief priest and owner, identified as Anand Ram Deka, who has been accused of involvement in illegal wildlife trade. 

The temple was located in the Basistha area of Guwahati, reports said.

A substantial team from the Forest Department stormed the premises, uncovering the banned animal parts hidden within the temple complex. Officials believe these items were being stored for sale in the local black market, exploiting the temple's location in a busy urban area.

"These seizures hint at a growing nexus of wildlife traffickers," a senior Forest Department official stated, emphasising the department's commitment to curbing such activities during the festive season. 

Anand Ram Deka was detained for questioning, and further investigations are underway to trace the supply chain. 

The seized items have been sent for forensic analysis, with charges under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, expected to be filed soon.

Further arrests are to be made soon, said forest officials after detaining Deka.