In a decisive crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking, Andhra Pradesh forest officials detained three people in Srikakulam on Tuesday. The arrest came after the interception of a vehicle carrying a cache of rare animal species destined for illicit trade.

According to a press release from the department, the wildlife seized included a seven-year-old African Sulcata tortoise, two younger tortoises, 17 African pythons and a four-month-old serval cat. The accused, Syaj, Vijay and Muzayith, hail from Karnataka and were nabbed during their journey from Bhubaneswar, Odisha to Bengaluru.

Officials from the Animal Husbandry Department assessed the health of the animals, confirming their stable condition following veterinary care. There are plans to relocate the rescued creatures to the Visakhapatnam zoo. The forest department has emphasized its commitment to strict legal repercussions for anyone involved in wildlife smuggling.

(With contributions from agencies.)