2 endangered bear cubs rescued in Bandarban, smuggler held

Dhaka, Bangladesh: Police in Alikadam upazila of Bandarban have recovered two bear cubs. During the operation, the accused was travelling on a motorcycle along the Alikadam-Chakaria route with two bear cubs concealed within a bag attached to his motorcycle. He was promptly arrested for his involvement in wildlife trafficking. 

Authorities are currently liaising with the forest department regarding the appropriate course of action for the rescued bear cubs. Discussions are underway regarding the possibility of relocating them to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park at Chakaria Upazila in Cox's Bazar. Legal proceedings related to this matter are currently underway. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has classified the Asian black bear as “vulnerable” on its Red List. These bears, found in the forests of Sylhet and Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh, face severe threats due to habitat loss and food scarcity resulting from continuous deforestation. For a considerable period, criminal networks have been involved in the smuggling of various endangered wild animals from the Lama and Alikadam upazilas of Bandarban, highlighting the ongoing challenge of wildlife preservation in the region.

Source:(Dhaka Tribune)