Guwahati: The Wildlife Crime Control Unit of Dimapur division apprehended two women with a total of 79 red-necked pigeons during a routine market raid.
The checking by the officials took place on Tuesday in Lengrijan Tuesday Bazar, Dimapur.
The sleuths rescued 35 and 44 live Turkish pigeons respectively from the possession of Rohila Ronghangpi (42 years) and Meena Enghipi (50 years), a press release said.
The two apprehended women have been identified as permanent residents of Monsing Teron Village, Dillai, Karbi Anglong, Assam.
The officials said that both the suspects have been detained by the Wildlife Crime Control Unit, Wildlife Division, Dimapur and will be dealt with under the relevant section of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
In a public plea, the Wildlife Division, Dimapur has asked all to refrain from buying, handling/selling wild animals, birds, bush meat, wildlife items/trophies, etc.
They have also issued a stern warning that content created about hunting/capturing wild animals and birds on social media and displaying/sharing wild animals through social media platforms is a serious offence and could lead to punishment under the Wild Life Protection Act of 1972.
Moreover, it is further stated that a dedicated team of Wildlife Crime Control Unit will be on 24×7 vigil and defaulters will be severely punished.