Pune Forest Department Seizes Rs 2 Crore Worth of Ambergris in Major Wildlife Crime Operation
Pune Forest Department makes a significant bust, seizing 2 kg of valuable ambergris, often known as whale vomit, worth nearly ₹2 crore. Three individuals arrested, while one remains at large.
PuneAmbergrisWildlife CrimeForest DepartmentSperm WhaleReal Estate PuneAug 25, 2025
Acting on confidential intelligence, forest officials laid a strategic trap to intercept the contraband. Ambergris, a rare secretion from sperm whales, is classified under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Its primary use is in the luxury perfume industry due to its unique fragrance-fixing properties.
The arrested individuals were initially remanded to three days of forest custody, which was extended by another three days on August 24 by the district magistrate to allow further interrogation.
Manoj Barbole, Range Forest Officer of Pune, said, “Our preliminary investigation indicates that this racket may extend beyond Pune and could have international links. We are working to identify additional individuals involved in this network.”
A senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, added that all arrested suspects are residents of Maharashtra, and the operation could be connected to coastal smuggling routes.
Under the Wildlife Protection Act, possession, trade, or hunting of sperm whales and their derivatives is a serious offense, punishable under Sections 2(32), 9, 39, 44, 48(A), 49, 50, and 51.
The Pune Forest Division has stepped up its investigation to locate the absconding suspect and dismantle the broader smuggling network. Officials warned that similar operations are being monitored across the state to curb illegal wildlife trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ambergris and why is it valuable?
Ambergris, often referred to as whale vomit, is a rare secretion from sperm whales. It is highly valued in the luxury perfume industry for its unique fragrance-fixing properties, making it extremely valuable on the international market.
What laws protect ambergris and sperm whales in India?
In India, ambergris and sperm whales are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Possession, trade, or hunting of these animals and their derivatives is a serious offense, punishable under various sections of the Act.
How did the Pune Forest Department conduct the operation?
The Pune Forest Department acted on confidential intelligence and laid a strategic trap to intercept the contraband. The operation resulted in the seizure of 2 kg of ambergris and the arrest of three individuals near Kothrud–Chandani Chowk.
What is the current status of the arrested individuals?
The three arrested individuals were initially remanded to three days of forest custody, which was extended by another three days on August 24 by the district magistrate to allow further interrogation.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
The Pune Forest Division is stepping up its investigation to locate the absconding suspect and dismantle the broader smuggling network. Officials are also monitoring similar operations across the state to curb illegal wildlife trade.
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