DRI seizes 86 live Tokay Geckos in Assam wildlife trafficking operation

NewsBharati    24-Sep-2026 16:21:37 PM
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Guwahati , Sept 24 : The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 86 live Tokay Geckos, an endangered wildlife species, during an operation against suspected illegal wildlife trafficking in Assam.
 
endangered wildlife species
 
Acting on specific intelligence regarding an illegal wildlife trade deal, DRI officers intercepted two persons at Bandar Chalia Gaon Ground in Mariani, Assam, on September 22, 2026.
 
During the operation, the officers recovered 86 live Tokay Geckos from the possession of the two individuals. The animals were seized under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
 
 
 
The Tokay Gecko is protected under Indian wildlife laws and is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The species is also included in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates its international trade.
 
Following the seizure, the two apprehended persons and the recovered live geckos were handed over to the Mariani Range Forest Office in Assam for further action under the relevant provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
 
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Tokay Geckos are sometimes targeted in illegal wildlife markets because of their perceived medicinal properties and demand among buyers of exotic pets. Such illegal trade can place additional pressure on protected wildlife species.
The latest operation highlights the DRI's efforts to detect and disrupt the trafficking of protected wildlife and prevent animals from entering illicit domestic and international markets.
 
The seizure also underlines the role of enforcement agencies in curbing wildlife trafficking and protecting species covered under India's wildlife protection framework and international trade regulations.

wildlife Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) trafficking of protected wildlife protecting species Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)