Poachers’ new target: 30 gharial hatchlings seized in MP, 3 held

Authorities in Madhya Pradesh recently stopped a major wildlife trafficking attempt involving 30 gharial hatchlings, signaling a disturbing shift in poaching trends. The Special Tiger Strike Force (STSF) intercepted a vehicle near Sabalgarh, close to the National Chambal Sanctuary, and rescued the endangered reptiles. The officials also found 14 rare red-crowned roofed turtles inside the vehicle.

This seizure marks the first major case involving such a large number of baby gharials in the region. The news has sparked concern among conservationists, as it reveals how poachers are now targeting hatchlings from protected river systems.

Swift Action Leads to Arrests

On July 12, 2025, acting on a tip-off, STSF officers stopped a suspicious vehicle near Jora, which borders the sanctuary. Inside, they found the reptiles packed tightly in plastic containers without water or ventilation.

Forest officers arrested three men: Raju Adivasi from Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh), and Vijay Gaur and Ramveer Singh from Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). These suspects have a known history of involvement in wildlife crimes.

The accused planned to smuggle the hatchlings to Kolkata, where the animals would then cross the border into Bangladesh. There, they would likely enter the illegal exotic pet trade or be used in traditional medicines.

Raid Uncovers More Endangered Turtles

The investigation did not stop there. On July 13, forest officers raided Vijay Gaur’s home in Gwalior. They found three more red-crowned roofed turtles and 19 three-striped roofed turtles during the search. These animals were also packed in inhumane conditions, bringing the total number of rescued reptiles to 66.

Officials rushed the animals to a wildlife rescue center. There, vets began treating them for dehydration and stress. Most are expected to recover and return to their natural habitat in the Chambal river system.

Why Are Gharial Hatchlings Now a Target?

Gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) are long-snouted, fish-eating crocodilians native to Indian rivers. Experts estimate that fewer than 900 of them remain in the wild. Most live in the Chambal River, which runs through Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

Historically, poachers ignored gharials because they posed no threat to humans and had little value in the black market. However, that trend is changing. Smugglers now target baby gharials because they are easier to transport and fetch high prices abroad. The hatchlings appeal to exotic pet collectors and practitioners of folk medicine.

“This is a new and dangerous development,” said a senior STSF officer. “Smugglers now understand the market value of baby gharials, especially in neighboring countries.”

A Widening Network of Wildlife Traffickers

Officials believe the arrested suspects are part of a larger network. Their group may have smuggled reptiles across India and into Southeast Asia for several years. Investigators are analyzing their phone records and financial transactions to identify more members of the syndicate.

Authorities suspect that the animals were to be taken to Bangladesh through Kolkata, a known wildlife trafficking route. From there, they could reach underground markets in Thailand, Myanmar, and beyond.

“This bust has opened the door to a much larger investigation,” said one officer. “We are now working with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and international partners.”

Legal Action and Wildlife Laws

The authorities have filed a case under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Gharials and red-crowned turtles fall under Schedule I, which grants them the highest level of protection. If convicted, the accused could face up to seven years in prison, along with heavy fines.

All three suspects remain in forest custody. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may follow.

Conservationists Call for Urgent Measures

Wildlife experts have expressed deep concern over the incident. They are urging the government to strengthen anti-poaching efforts in the Chambal region. Some suggest deploying drones for surveillance and increasing river patrols.

“There is no time to lose,” said Dr. Ravi Shankar, a herpetologist involved in gharial conservation. “The fact that poachers managed to collect 30 hatchlings from near a protected sanctuary is alarming. It shows how fragile our protection systems really are.”

Dr. Shankar also emphasized the need for community involvement. He believes local residents must understand the ecological importance of gharials to discourage them from aiding smugglers.

A Wake-Up Call for India

India is home to some of the world’s most endangered species. Yet, wildlife crime continues to grow, often driven by demand from international black markets. This case is a harsh reminder that even protected animals like gharials are not safe from trafficking networks.

The successful rescue operation by the Madhya Pradesh STSF shows what is possible when vigilance, intelligence, and coordination come together. However, experts warn that enforcement alone is not enough. There must be public awareness, international cooperation, and stronger penalties to deter such crimes.

If India wants to preserve its unique biodiversity, these efforts must intensify. Otherwise, more species will vanish silently — not from natural causes, but from unchecked greed and negligence.