RPF nabs Patna-Indore Express attendant for smuggling turtles:Found 311 live Indian Tent Turtles in two bags while searching for illegal liquor onboard train

A shocking wildlife smuggling case came to light on the Patna-Indore Express (Train 19322) when a coach attendant, Ajay Singh Rajput, was found carrying 311 live Indian Tent Turtles in two bags. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) was conducting a routine search for illegal alcohol when suspicions arose about the attendant. Suspicious behavior leads to discovery ASI Hemant Kumar Rajput and R. Johnny Kumar conducted a search of Ajay Singh’s two bags and discovered dozens of small live turtles. The discovery exposed a possible illegal trade network in exotic turtles, prompting further investigation. Smuggling for cash, first-time offence Interrogation revealed that Ajay, a resident of Indore and a four-year railway employee via a private agency, received the bags from a person in Lucknow. One bag was to be delivered in Devas, and the other in Indore, for which he was promised Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,500 respectively. Ajay admitted he acted out of greed and that this was his first smuggling attempt. Method of concealment As a first AC coach attendant, Ajay had access to a private cabin and bedding storage, where he hid the bags among other personal items. Routine checks for casual labor and staff led RPF officials to notice his suspicious behavior, uncovering the smuggling operation. Market value and legal implications According to aquarium trade sources, small turtles fetch Rs 2,000–5,000 each, meaning the seized 311 turtles could have been worth several lakhs of rupees in the illegal market. However, being a fully protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, any trade is illegal. The accused faces charges carrying 3 to 7 years imprisonment. Turtles to be released into natural habitats Forest department authorities have taken the turtles into protective custody. They will be safely released into clean, flowing natural water bodies, as these turtles thrive only in such environments. About the Indian tent turtle