Seven Endangered Golden Langurs Returned To The Wild After Wildlife Trafficking Rescue In India
Photo credit: IFAW
Seven endangered golden langurs have been released back into the wild in Assam, India, following an operation that exposed links to a cross-border wildlife trafficking network.
The enforcement operation took place between June 19 and June 20, 2026, after authorities acted on intelligence gathered through the Wildlife Trust of India’s wildlife crime prevention efforts. Suspected traffickers were intercepted along National Highway 27 in Assam.
Eight golden langurs had been illegally taken from the wild and were discovered being transported in sacks and cramped cages. Tragically, one of the animals died during the journey.
The seven surviving langurs, including one juvenile, were transferred into the care of the Assam Forest Department. Veterinary and conservation teams from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) provided care and helped prepare the animals for their return back to the wild.
Following their recovery, the seven langurs were released on June 25, 2026, into Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park in Assam. The group consists of two males, four females, and one juvenile. According to IFAW, they have remained together and are surviving well while forest staff continue to monitor their progress.
The broader operation ultimately led to the arrest of 11 people from India and Bangladesh and uncovered links to a wildlife trafficking network operating across Assam, West Bengal, and Bangladesh. Authorities are continuing to search for additional suspects believed to be involved.
The coordinated response involved the Special Task Force, Chirang Police, Assam Forest Department, Sashastra Seema Bal, and authorities from the Bodoland Territorial Council, along with wildlife conservation and veterinary teams.
Golden langurs are found only within a limited region of India and Bhutan, with fewer than 14,000 individuals remaining. The species is classified as Endangered by the IUCN, receives strict protection under Schedule I of India’s Wild Life (Protection) Act, and is listed under Appendix I of CITES.
Habitat fragmentation, expanding infrastructure, poaching, and wildlife trafficking continue to threaten these rare primates.
The successful rescue and release of the seven surviving langurs highlights the importance of coordinated efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species worldwide.
