A team from the Belacoba forest range seized a Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii) from the Darjeeling forest area and arrested four persons for unlawful dealing. The Red Sand Boa was meant to be shipped to Nepal, according to the news agency ANI.
Arindam Sarkar, Pasang Lama Sherpa, Abavar Miya, and Jagadish Ch Roy have been named as the defendants.
WB | Team of Belacoba forest range seized Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii) from Darjeeling forest area arrested 4 people in connection with illegal trading. Accused identified as Arindam Sarkar, Pasang Lama Sherpa, Abavar Miya & Jagadish Ch Roy. It was scheduled for delivery to Nepal. pic.twitter.com/tW3wrVmVvJ
— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2023
It is unknown why the red sand boa is so popular in illegal trade circles. Some believe it has supernatural abilities. The snake is referred to as the mandool/mandul or du-tondya (the one with two mouths), and its scientific name is Eryx Johnii. It is also known as the Double Engine since its head and tail have the same appearance. India, Iran, and Pakistan are home to the snake.
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