Ashoknagar, Madhya Pradesh: In a major breakthrough against wildlife trafficking, the Ashoknagar Police have arrested two men involved in the smuggling of a rare and protected species of snake — the Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii), valued at crores of rupees in the international black market. The accused had allegedly brought the snake from Jaipur, Rajasthan, for illegal sale in Madhya Pradesh.
According to official reports, the police received a tip-off that two individuals were carrying a rare species of snake for sale and heading towards JBS Colony, Ashoknagar. Acting on the intelligence, Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajeev Kumar Mishra activated the informer network and formed a special team to apprehend the suspects. During a surprise checking operation, police intercepted two men and, upon searching their bag, recovered a live Red Sand Boa. A motorcycle used in the smuggling operation was also seized.
The accused were identified as Babu Adivasi (27), son of Karan Singh Adivasi, and Shiva Adivasi (20), son of Kailash Adivasi — both residents of Titour village under Bahadurpur police station limits. During interrogation, the duo confessed that they had procured the snake from a relative in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and were planning to sell it in Ashoknagar for a huge amount.
The police have registered a case under Sections 9 and 39 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, at Kotwali Police Station, Ashoknagar. Both accused will be produced before the court, and the recovered snake will undergo medical examination before being handed over to the concerned authorities for further legal action.
SP Mishra clarified that the Red Sand Boa, also known as Eryx johnii, is a non-venomous and harmless species protected under Indian wildlife laws. Its tail resembles its head, making it appear “two-headed,” which fuels superstitious beliefs about its “magical powers.” These myths, combined with illegal demand in the international black market, make the snake extremely valuable and drive widespread trafficking.
He further warned that hunting, selling, or smuggling such protected wildlife species is a serious criminal offence, punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act, and assured strict action against those involved in such illicit activities.
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