Iguana & Emperor Scorpion Seized in Exotic Pet Raid in Madhya Pradesh

Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh’s State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) have seized an emperor scorpion and an iguana after a residence in Dewas was raided. This is the first seizure of an unregistered exotic animal under the provisions of the recently enforced rule 49M of the amended Wildllife Protection Act. 

Both the iguana and Emperor Scorpion species are listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), and under the amended Wildlife Protection Act, these species must be registered for trade and to be kept as pets. 

According to the authorities, no registration documents or permits were found with the accused, with the rescued animals being handed over to the care of the Indore Zoo. An investigation is underway, with suspects being identified outside the state as well. 

This case comes shortly after the implementation of the Living Animal Species (Reporting and Registration) Rules 2024. According to the new regulations, it is mandatory to register the ownership, birth, transfer, and death of any CITES-listed animal through the PARIVESH portal by August 31, 2024. Non-compliance with the rules will lead to legal repercussions and raids in the state to prevent the illicit trade of rare or endangered animals.