Two arrested in Hyderabad while trying to sell tiger teeth and nails

Two individuals were arrested in Hyderabad on Monday (February 9, 2026) for attempting to sell tiger nails and canine teeth in the grey market, during an operation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Hyderabad Zonal Unit.

The operation followed specific tip-off about illegal trade of protected wildlife articles. During questioning, one of the accused produced a transparent zip-lock pouch from his backpack, which was found to contain seven tiger nails and three canine teeth, suspected to be parts of a tiger (Panthera tigris).

Tiger is a protected species listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the possession or trade of any of its body parts constitutes a serious offence under the law.

The wildlife articles, along with the packing material and the backpack used for concealment, were seized under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. The two accused, along with the seized items and mobile phones allegedly used in the offence, were later handed over to the Telangana State Forest Department for further investigation and legal action under the Act. Further investigation is underway.