India, Aug. 25 -- In a significant crackdown on wildlife crime, the Pune Forest department seized about 2 kg of ambergris (whale vomit) worth nearly Rs.2 crore in the international market and arrested three persons near Kothrud-Chandani Chowk area on August 21. On Sunday, the district magistrate sent the accused to extended forest custody.

Acting swiftly on confidential intelligence, a forest team led by senior officials laid a trap and recovered 2 kg of ambergris from the possession of the accused. While the three suspects were immediately arrested, one managed to flee and is still absconding. Officials confirmed that ambergris, a rare and protected substance under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is often used in luxury...