Seller arrested, Remanded in custody until July 12

Thane: Yash Anand Pargavarkar (21) was apprehended by a forest department team for allegedly selling crocodile hatchling on Jogeshwari Link Road near IIT Powai in suburban Mumbai. Following his arrest, Pargavarkar was presented before the court where he has been ordered to remain in custody until July 12.

The forest department's action was prompted by confidential information received by Deputy Conservator of Forests Thane Santosh Sachet, indicating the illegal sale of crocodile cubs near IIT Powai. A team led by Conservator of Forests Rakesh Bhoir, including Honorary Wildlife Warden Thane Rohit Mohite and other officials, successfully apprehended Pargavarkar along with a baby crocodile at Jogeshwari Link Road.

Pargavarkar, hailing from Raj Ratna Chaal Mahatma Jotiba Phule Nagar, IIT Mumbai, now faces charges under the Wildlife Protection Act, which categorizes such crimes involving wild animals under Schedule-I. The offense carries a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 25,000.

Rakesh Bhoir emphasized the severity of the crime and the legal consequences associated with wildlife trafficking, underscoring the forest department's commitment to upholding wildlife conservation laws.

The case has been registered at the Mulund Circle, and further legal proceedings are expected as the investigation continues.