WildlifeTrafficking – Interpol Targets Bangladesh-Based Aquatic Smuggling Network Leader
WildlifeTrafficking – The International Criminal Police Organization has issued a Red Notice against Bangladesh-based alleged wildlife trafficking operator Al Haj Shafiqul Islam Rahmal Talukdar, also known as Raymond Talukdar, following an extensive investigation led by the Madhya Pradesh forest department’s State Tiger Strike Force (STSF).
The international alert was issued on April 29 after authorities gathered evidence linking Talukdar to a large cross-border network involved in the illegal trade of rare aquatic and semi-aquatic species across South and Southeast Asia. A Red Notice is circulated globally to help law enforcement agencies trace and provisionally detain fugitives wanted in criminal investigations or court proceedings.
Investigation Began With Wildlife Seizure in Morena
The investigation started in July 2025 when officials from the STSF intercepted three individuals in Madhya Pradesh’s Morena district and rescued several endangered species allegedly being smuggled illegally. The seized animals included 30 baby gharials, 17 red-crowned roofed turtles, and 19 three-striped roofed turtles.
Following the recovery, forest officials registered a wildlife offence case and initiated a deeper probe into the trafficking route and individuals connected to the operation. Investigators later uncovered evidence suggesting the involvement of an organised international syndicate operating through multiple Indian states and neighbouring countries.
Smuggling Network Spread Across Multiple Countries
According to officials, the gang used routes passing through West Bengal to move rare wildlife species from India into Bangladesh. From there, the animals were reportedly trafficked further into Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and several other Southeast Asian nations where illegal wildlife demand remains high.
Authorities believe the network specialised in trafficking protected aquatic species that are often targeted for exotic pet markets and illegal wildlife trade channels abroad.
The STSF expanded its operations beyond Madhya Pradesh during the investigation and conducted raids and surveillance activities in several states. So far, six accused persons have been arrested in connection with the case.
Major Arrest Led Investigators to Alleged Kingpin
A major breakthrough came in March 2026 when investigators arrested Taraknath Ghosh, described by officials as one of the country’s largest aquatic wildlife smugglers. Ghosh, a resident of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal, was taken into custody from Kanpur Central Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh.
Officials stated that multiple wildlife crime cases had already been registered against him in different states. During questioning, investigators reportedly gathered key information about the wider smuggling network and its international connections.
The STSF said Ghosh’s interrogation, along with digital and scientific evidence collected during the probe, pointed to Talukdar as the central figure coordinating trafficking activities across borders. Investigators allege that Talukdar managed illegal wildlife shipments from South Asian countries to buyers and handlers operating in Southeast Asia.
Court Warrant and International Coordination
Based on evidence submitted by investigators, the Chief Judicial Magistrate court in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh issued an arrest warrant against Talukdar. Following the court order, Indian authorities approached Interpol through the Central Government for international cooperation.
Officials said information regarding Talukdar and his activities was shared and verified with law enforcement agencies in several countries with Interpol’s support. After reviewing the evidence and considering the transnational nature of the alleged network, Interpol approved the Red Notice request.
The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau in New Delhi also assisted the investigation and coordinated with multiple agencies during the operation.
Interpol Recognises STSF Efforts
Interpol, formally known as the International Criminal Police Organization, works with law enforcement agencies from more than 195 countries to support international criminal investigations and policing cooperation.
Officials from the Madhya Pradesh forest department said the STSF has received appreciation from Interpol on four separate occasions for its work against wildlife trafficking and organised environmental crime.
The latest action is being viewed as a significant development in efforts to dismantle illegal wildlife smuggling networks operating across international borders and targeting endangered aquatic species.