Pune Customs dept seizes leopard skin; one held

Officials said that specific intelligence was received by the Pune Customs that a gang operating in Satara district was engaged in illegal trade of wildlife.

Upon receiving information that the gang is attempting to smuggle leopard skin, an investigation team from Pune Customs reached Satara in the early hours of August 18.

The officers searched the premises of a dairy shop which was allegedly owned by the suspect, based on the intelligence received.

During the search, a leopard skin was recovered from the possession of a suspect. “The investigation has revealed that another member of the gang had already left for Dubai. It has come to light that the gang was trying to find an overseas buyer and in-turn smuggle the leopard skin out of the country. A suspect has been arrested and was produced before a competent court in Satara and has been remanded to judicial custody.” The officer said.