Indian star tortoises, parakeets seized during raid at Bengaluru’s ‘Billionaire Street’, 3 held

One of the arrested includes an associate of the founder of a major e-commerce firm headquartered in Bengaluru.

Bengaluru wildlife seizure, Karnataka CID, endangered species, Indian star tortoises,

The tortoise were being kept in a bowl. (Express Photo)

In a major seizure involving endangered species in Bengaluru, Karnataka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Wednesday arrested three people, including an associate of the founder of a major e-commerce firm, for possessing nine Indian star tortoises and four parakeets.

One of the raids was conducted at the city’s famed Billionaire Street, at the luxurious bungalow where the associate, Balaji, works as a supervisor, said the CID’s forest cell officials. The ‘Billionaire Street’ at Koramangala is known by the name as it houses residences of many CEOs and business tycoons.

During the raid at Koramangala 3rd Block, the officials arrested Balaji, and seized three Indian star tortoises and four parakeets from him. The CID also arrested Roohi Om Prakash, the house owner.

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The Indian star tortoise, listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is critically endangered and its possession can lead to seven years of imprisonment and a fine; while Indian parakeets are listed under Schedule 2, which also covers endangered species.

Bengaluru wildlife seizure, Karnataka CID, endangered species

According to a CID source, the two people acquired the tortoises based on an astrologer’s advice, under the belief that the animals would bring them good luck and health. (Express Photo)

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According to a CID source, the two people acquired the tortoises based on an astrologer’s advice, under the belief that the animals would bring them good luck and health.

“We are investigating the origins of these animals and will track the procurement trail,” said a police officer.

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Police said that Balaji is reportedly the associate of the founder one of India’s biggest e-commerce firm, headquartered in Bengaluru.

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The sleuths also raided a house in Pantharapalya in western Bengaluru, and arrested pet vendor Karthik and seized six more Indian star tortoises.

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