Shockwaves rippled through Mumbai after a routine tip led to the dramatic rescue of a crocodile and turtle from the confines of a Juhu bedroom. Forest Department teams, alongside Mumbai Crime Branch and Serp India volunteers, executed a flawless operation, freeing the Schedule-1 protected animals from illegal captivity.
The chain of events began with a secret informant alerting forest authorities about suspicious activity in a Ruiya Park residence. Andheri range guard Roshan Binde mobilized support from Unit-9, planning a precise strike on the Moragaon Shankar Chawl address. With panchas in tow, the squad breached the home, encountering residents Shahida Sheikh and Imran Ismail Sheikh.
Hidden in a cramped room’s aquarium-like tank, the Indian crocodile and spotted turtle were discovered alive but stressed. Possession of these species breaches the Wildlife Protection Act comprehensively, inviting stringent penalties. The rescue unfolded methodically—animals secured in transport crates, entire process filmed for evidence.
Interviews painted a picture of familial involvement, with Shahida pointing fingers at brother Imran, who dodged specifics. The 29-year-old now faces charges under Sections 9, 39, 48, and 51. Post-rescue, the creatures were dispatched to specialized facilities for health checks and rehabilitation.
This raid exposes vulnerabilities in urban wildlife enforcement, where exotic pets masquerade as status symbols. Conservationists applaud the swift response but demand harsher deterrents and public awareness drives. As probes deepen, Mumbai reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding biodiversity amid city sprawl.