Two Indian star tortoises seized from pet shop in joint operation
PETA India and Dhalbhum Forest Division rescued two protected Indian star tortoises from an illegal sale at a Jamshedpur pet shop.
JAMSHEDPUR – Following a tip-off, PETA India and the Dhalbhum Forest Division jointly rescued two Indian star tortoises from illegal sale at a Jamshedpur pet shop.
The rescued tortoises are protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
A preliminary offence report has been registered against unidentified individuals under sections 9, 39, 50, and 51 of the WPA.
The forest department is currently keeping the seized tortoises under observation in Mango.
The operation targeted Atlantic Aquarium, a pet shop in Sonari, where the tortoises were being illegally kept for sale.
Possession and sale of Schedule I species can result in three to seven years imprisonment and a minimum fine of Rs 25,000.
Saloni Sakaria, PETA India’s Cruelty Response Coordinator, expressed gratitude to the forest department for their prompt action.
"This incident is exactly why laws exist to keep wild animals where they belong – in nature," Sakaria emphasized.
Indian star tortoises are frequently targeted by illegal traders due to their distinctive appearance and high demand in the pet trade.
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species classifies the Indian star tortoise as vulnerable.
As wild animals, these tortoises often suffer in captivity from inadequate care, including improper diet and lack of suitable habitat conditions.
The rescue highlights ongoing efforts to combat the illegal trade of endangered species in India.
PETA India and the Dhalbhum Forest Division continue to work closely to enforce wildlife protection laws and prevent such offences.
