Mohali, Feb. 17 -- Kharar police on Saturday caught a Kerala native with 40 gm of ambergris, commonly known as whale vomit or floating gold, whose sale and possession is prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act.

The waxy, solid substance is formed in the intestines of sperm whales after ingesting indigestible elements of their prey and expelled in the ocean. Known for its ability to help perfumes' scent last longer, it is highly rare and prized.

The accused, identified as Subin Mohammad, 40, was nabbed following a complaint by Kharar-based veterinarian Sahil Jaggi. The complainant told police that he came to know that the accused was in illegal possession of wildlife prohibited substance and looking for a buyer.

After receiving the...