Imphal: Security forces arrested two alleged cattle smugglers and rescued 24 Ibex—wild mountain goats, illegally transported from Myanmar into Manipur through Tengnoupal district.
Acting on intelligence about cross-border smuggling, central security forces and Manipur police maintained heightened vigilance along the porous border areas of Tengnoupal district. During a special operation, a vehicle (MN-02B-8290) transporting the exotic species toward Pallel in Kakching district was intercepted, leading to the arrest of two individuals and seizure of the vehicle.
The accused have been identified as Md Kalim (35) of Mayai Leikai, Kakching district, and Md Sabir Khan (19) of Phundrei, Thoubal district. The arrested persons, along with the rescued wildlife and the vehicle, were handed over to the Forest Department.
Officials noted that Ibex are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, and offences involving hunting or illegal trade carry penalties of up to seven years in prison and substantial fines.
Ibex (Capra sibirica) are wild mountain goats known for their long, backward-curved horns and exceptional agility in scaling steep, rocky, and snowy terrains. Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, they are herbivorous and social, often using high-altitude, rugged landscapes to evade predators.