Wild animals and birds seized by staff of Kohima Forest Division along NH-29 on December 4.
Kohima, January 7: While performing routine duty to check illegal trade of wild animals and birds, the patrolling team under Kohima Forest Division seized five Squirrels and five birds sold along the NH-29 near Medziphema/Pherima on December 4. Wenipe, Deputy Ranger, led the team. The seized items were later destroyed by burning in presence of senior officers in the premises of the office of the Kohima Forest Range Officer.
In a press release, Beizo Suokhrie, ACF i/c Kohima Forest Range, lamented that besides efforts by departmental staff to control hunting and sale of wildlife, the offence continues unabated. The release has once again appeal to all concerned and responsible citizens to refrain from hunting of wildlife and also not to encourage such activities by purchasing any wild animals that is being sold.
The release further informed the public that several patrolling squads have been mobilized to carryout checking/raids in the markets, roadside, etc. for selling of wild animals and birds. The squads/teams will be performing their duties randomly throughout the year. The public general is also reminded that such offences are punishable with a fine upto Rs. 25,000 or imprisonment of 3 to 7 years under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
