Patna : Railway police in Danapur division have arrested four individuals, including a husband and wife, in connection with the smuggling of 27 rare turtles believed to be destined for sale on the international market.
The turtles, identified as Indian softshell turtles—a species listed as vulnerable and nearing extinction—were recovered from a train at Buxar railway station during a routine check of the Farakka Express. Officers were alerted by a foul smell coming from a bag near the toilet in coach S-2, leading to the discovery of the concealed consignment.
According to Railway Superintendent Amarendu Shekhar Thakur, the turtles were being transported from Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh and were en route to West Bengal for delivery. The estimated value of the consignment in the international market ranges from Rs 15 to 20 lakh.
The accused have been identified as Rehanka, Vinod, and Umesh Kumar—all residents of Sultanpur. During questioning, they admitted to plans to sell the turtles illegally abroad. All four have been remanded to judicial custody following interrogation.
Wildlife trafficking remains a growing concern in India, particularly along inter-state rail routes, which are often exploited by smugglers to transport endangered species. Authorities have stepped up vigilance in recent years, though enforcement challenges persist.
