Ahmedabad LCB Seizes ₹1.82 Crore Suspected Ambergris, 3 arrested
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Ahmedabad City Police's Local Crime Branch (LCB), Zone-7, has arrested three persons and seized 1.823 kg of suspected ambergris, commonly known as whale vomit, valued at approximately ₹1.82 crore, in the Sarkhej area.
Police said the operation was conducted as part of a special drive against the illegal trade in wildlife derivatives protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
Intelligence-led operation
According to police, surveillance had been intensified on individuals allegedly involved in the illegal collection, transportation and sale of remains of protected wildlife species.
During patrolling on July 1, a team led by Police Sub-Inspector H. D. Vaghela received specific intelligence that three persons were waiting near Sanathal Bridge on the SP Ring Road in Sarkhej with a consignment of suspected ambergris.
Acting on the tip-off, the LCB team intercepted the suspects and recovered:
- 1 kg and 823 grams of a substance suspected to be ambergris.
- A mobile phone worth ₹5,000.
Police estimated the value of the suspected ambergris at ₹1.82 crore.
Accused
The arrested persons have been identified as:
- Vishwaraj Singh Giriraj Singh Chudasama (27), a resident of Limbdi in Surendranagar district.
- Darshan Rupabhai Sabhad (24), also a resident of Limbdi in Surendranagar district.
- Virpal Singh Gafurbhai Vajesang Rathod (25), a resident of Changodar in Ahmedabad district.
Police action
Police have initiated legal proceedings against the three accused under the relevant provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
Officials said the seized substance will be sent for scientific examination to confirm whether it is ambergris.
About ambergris
Ambergris is a rare wax-like substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales. The possession, transportation and trade of ambergris are prohibited in India under the Wildlife (Protection) Act because sperm whales are a protected species.
Despite the ban, ambergris commands high prices on the black market due to its use in the international perfume industry as a fragrance fixative.
