Bhubaneswar, Feb. 24 -- In a successful operation, the officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have arrested one person allegedly involved in the smuggling of turtles in Odisha.

The DRI officials also seized 1448 Indian Flap Shell Turtles following a raid at Godipada Toll Plaza in Khordha district. The vehicle used in the crime has also been seized, officials said on Monday.

Senior DRI officials informed that Indian Flap Shell Turtles are classified as a Schedule I species and accorded stringent protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

The DRI remains committed to combating wildlife trafficking and enforcing the laws that protect endangered species.

In March 2024, the DRI officials had foiled a major...