Priyanka Tiwari
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A highly organized poaching syndicate has been linked to the deaths of over 100 tigers in India since 2022. The Indian Express uncovered that this network spans several states and uses digital hawala channels to fund operations. It also maintains trafficking routes to Nepal and Myanmar, creating a complex wildlife crime web.
Criminal Network Uses Modern Financing and Transport Methods
This syndicate differs from older poaching rings. It operates with greater precision and fewer intermediaries. Authorities believe it is leaner and more efficient, reducing risk by hiring transporters and minimizing small-time smugglers. Links to narcotics and arms syndicates further complicate enforcement efforts.
Multistate Investigation Involving Central and International Agencies
So far, law enforcement agencies in five Indian states have taken action. Four Central agencies—alongside Interpol—are actively pursuing leads. Over a dozen individuals have been arrested this year. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), and Enforcement Directorate (ED) are all involved in the case.
Supply Chain Extends to Myanmar and Nepal
Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh officials identified one operational vertical that runs through the Myanmar border. Other verticals are believed to supply wildlife products to Nepal and Tibet. The cross-border nature of this trade complicates crackdowns and increases the number of tigers at risk.
Money Trail Suggests Over Rs 8 Crore in Transactions
Investigators traced hawala transactions worth between Rs 7.5 crore and Rs 8 crore. This sum likely accounts for at least 90 tigers, based on an estimated value of Rs 8–12 lakh per animal. With additional cells still active, the real number of tiger deaths may be much higher.
Tiger Reserves Face Population Losses
India hosts 58 tiger reserves, but only eight have populations exceeding 100 tigers. According to the 2022 national tiger census, India is home to 3,682 tigers. The continued operation of such networks poses serious risks to their survival.
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve Shows Troubling Signs
Though not part of the main investigation, Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan has lost 40 tigers since the COVID-19 pandemic. About half of these deaths are unexplained, raising concerns about poaching activity beyond known hotspots.
Repeated Offenders Exploit Legal Loopholes
Two known syndicate leaders—Sonu Singh Bawaria and Ajeet Siyalal Pardhi—were arrested in 2023 and 2024. However, both were granted bail and reportedly resumed operations. Authorities say Sonu sometimes acted as an informer to mislead investigations and eliminate rivals.
Public Database May Unintentionally Aid Criminals
The WCCB maintains an online record of convicted poachers. While intended to support enforcement, some officials worry that this list may help traffickers identify and recruit experienced poachers across states.
