In a significant operation, the Forest Department in Gaya has recovered illegal pangolin scales. Acting on a tip-off, a team from the Forest Department raided a hotel room and detained four individuals. The recovered pangolin scales are estimated to be worth lakhs of rupees, pointing towards a large wildlife trafficking network.

According to Forest Department officials, they received confidential information that some individuals were attempting to illegally trade pangolin scales in Gaya. Taking this information seriously, a special team was formed. The team quickly identified the relevant hotel and conducted a raid late at night. During the raid, a substantial quantity of pangolin scales was recovered from one of the hotel rooms.

Four individuals have been taken into custody in connection with this case. Interrogations are ongoing to identify others involved in this illegal trade and to uncover the entire network. Forest Department officials stated that pangolins are a protected wildlife species, and trading their scales is a serious offense under the Wildlife Protection Act. Pangolin species are rapidly becoming extinct, and their trafficking occurs internationally, with their scales used in traditional medicine and other products.

This recovery demonstrates the Forest Department's commitment against wildlife crimes. Officials have appealed to the public to immediately report any such illegal activities to the Forest Department or the police to protect wildlife and the environment. Further investigation in this case is underway, and it is hoped that other members of this racket will be apprehended soon.