Indian authorities have captured one of the world’s most sought-after wildlife traffickers in a significant victory against international animal poaching networks. Yangchen Lachungpa, whose name featured prominently on Interpol’s most-wanted list, was taken into custody following a meticulously coordinated operation between the Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Strike Force and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau.
The arrest marks a critical development in combating the illicit trade of endangered species, particularly highlighting the sophisticated networks transporting tiger parts across international borders. Lachungpa stands accused of masterminding trafficking corridors extending from India to Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, with operational bases in multiple Indian cities including the capital, Delhi.
This case presents unusual dimensions in wildlife crime enforcement, as female involvement in high-level animal part trafficking remains exceptionally rare. Lachungpa had previously faced arrest in 2017 but vanished after obtaining bail, continuing her alleged criminal activities until this week’s apprehension.
Court proceedings have already commenced, with judicial authorities denying bail during her Thursday appearance, reflecting the seriousness of the charges. Investigative records indicate collaborator testimonies, including from Jai Tamang—arrested in 2015—who confessed to providing Lachungpa with wildlife contraband in exchange for shelter.
The trafficking network specifically targeted tigers, whose body parts command high prices in traditional Chinese medicine markets. While documented tiger poaching cases show a decrease from 56 in 2023 to 26 in 2024 according to the International Fund for Animal Welfare, experts caution that actual numbers likely significantly exceed reported figures due to undetected killings.