In a major operation against wildlife trafficking, the Assam Rifles, in coordination with the Mizoram Forest Department, rescued four exotic De Brazza’s monkeys valued at ₹60 lakh in Zokhawthar, Champhai district, on December 17. A Myanmarese national was apprehended in connection with the incident.
The operation, based on specific intelligence, was conducted near Crossing Point III (Thangkhupa Kai). Troops from the COB Zokhawthar launched an ambush in the area, successfully intercepting the trafficker attempting to smuggle the rare primates across the Indo-Myanmar border.
The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Lalchhanhim from Tiau, Khawmawi in Myanmar, tried to evade capture but was swiftly apprehended. A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of the four exotic monkeys. The rescued animals and the detained individual have been handed over to the Mizoram Forest Department for further investigation and legal action.
