SHILLONG, FEB 22: At least 15 rare turtles scientifically known as Lepidochelys and Olivacea with medicinal value meant for smuggling out to Bangladesh were seized on Monday by the BSF in South Garo hills district.
These rare loggerhead turtles are very costly because of its medicinal values.
The BSF intercepted the smuggling effort after they got suspicious of two persons on a bike carrying a bag proceeding from Baghmara to Gasuapara side on NH 62 and the border guards’ on duty tried to stop them.
However the two bikers raced dropping the bag.
On searching the bag, 15 rare species of turtles were recovered but the smugglers managed to escape, BSF officials informed. According to them, these turtles are smuggled out to Bangladesh from Indian territory.
These rare loggerhead turtles are protected under schedule –I and IV of Indian Wildlife Protection act 1972 (WLPA).
Because of its medicinal values these rare turtles are in demand in International market.
In another significant seizure, BSF at Dangar, South West Khasi hills district seized 8 cattle worth Rs 3,40,000 while being smuggled out to Bangladesh from India. The seized items have been handed over to concerned department for legal action.-By Our Reporter
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