Assam: Chinese pangolin rescued, three arrested in Maligaon

GUWAHATI, July 7, 2018: In a joint operation led by the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and customs officials on Friday, three persons were arrested for smuggling a young Chinese pangolin in Maligaon, Assam.

Three persons identified as Faijul Hague, Fajal Hague and Imran Hussain were arrested in connection with the smuggling.

"The three persons were caught from a private lodge in Maligaon Chariali area. They were waiting for the agent who would buy the pangolin from them," customs source said.

The Chinese pangolin, also commonly referred to as scaly anteaters, is considered to be a critically endangered species.These animals are widely trafficked globally as there is a huge demands for their scales and meat.

WCCB sources said around 6000 pangolins were recovered from smugglers around the country between 2009 and 2017.

There is a huge demand for these mammals in China and South East Asia where pangolin meat is considered a delicasy and a tonic food because of its alleged medicinal properties. Pangolin scales are used as an ingredient in traditional medicines as they are believed to cure various ailments," source said.

Featured image: Animal Almanac

TNT-The Northeast Today News