Fri Oct 11 09:31:25 UTC 2024: ## Mumbai Police Bust Snake Smuggling Ring, Rescue Red Sand Boa
**Mumbai, India:** In a successful operation, the Mumbai Police have apprehended four individuals involved in the illegal trade of a Red Sand Boa snake, a critically endangered species often sought for medicinal or black magic purposes.
The arrest came after an undercover officer, disguised as a businessman, contacted the smugglers under the pretense of buying the snake. The operation was initiated following a tip-off regarding the potential sale.
The police, led by Assistant Inspector Amit Devkar, identified the suspects and managed to secure the snake, valued at Rs 30 lakh (approximately $38,000), during a carefully planned operation. The snake was being transported in a car when police apprehended the suspects.
The arrested individuals, identified as Narsimha Dhoti, Shiva Mallesh Adhap, Ravi Bhoir, and Arvind Gupta, are currently in judicial custody. The snake was found alive but in poor condition, having been injected with substances to increase its weight and inflate its price.
The rescued reptile has been handed over to the Thane Forest Department for rehabilitation.
“The accused initially demanded Rs 5 crore (approximately $64,000) for the snake, claiming its weight had increased to five kilos,” said Assistant Inspector Devkar.
The police are currently searching for another suspect, Michael, who acted as the middleman, connecting sellers from Telangana with buyers in Mumbai.
All five suspects have been charged under the Wildlife Protection Act. A further investigation is underway.
First Piper 