AR seizes Geckos in Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 26 2018:
In a major haul, 12 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQIGAR (South) on May 26 seized two Tokay Geckos along Imphal-Moreh NH102 .
Acting on specific information, a red coloured Pulsar having registration number KA 03 HP 0970 was intercepted at Permanent Vehicle Check Post (PVCP), Khudengthabi by a team of 12 Assam Rifles.
During frisking, the security personnel found two Tokay Geckos (approximate 14 inch and 14.5 inch respectively) concealed in a cloth tied around the waist of the individual.
The arrested person identified as Seitinthang Haokipage, of Moreh along with seized animals were taken into custody by Assam Rifles.
Later, the geckos along with the individual were handed over to Forest Department Tengnoupal.
Tokay Gecko is a species belonging to lizard family, listed in the schedule III of Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972 as highly endangered animal.
Tokay 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.