AR seizes geckos in Manipur
Source: IT News
Imphal, May 27 2018:
In a major haul, 12 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) on 26 May 2018 seized two Tokey Geckos on Imphal-Moreh National Highway (NH 102) of Manipur.
Acting on specific information, a Red Colour Pulsar Bike having registered number KA 03 HP 0970 was intercepted at Permanent Vehicle Check Post (PVCP), Khudengthabi by a team of 12 Assam Rifles.
During the search the security personnel found two Tokay Geckos of approximate length 14 inch and 14.5 inch respectively concealed in a cloth tied around the waist of the individual.
The arrested person identified as Mr Seitinthang Haokipage, aged 25 years resident of Moreh along with seized animals was taken into custody by Assam Rifles.
The seized items and the apprehendee were handed over to Forest Department Tengnoupal.
Tokey Gecko is a species of lizard, listed in the schedule III of Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972 as highly endangered animal.
Tokey Geckos are being illegally caught and trafficked from Northeastern Indian State to Southeast Asian countries, where many people believe that medicines made from them can cure HIV.