Madhya Pradesh Forest Department Earns Global Recognition for Busting International Tiger Smuggling Ring

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department has achieved a major breakthrough in the fight against transnational wildlife crime, earning accolades from INTERPOL for its relentless pursuit of notorious tiger trafficker Tashi Sherpa and his network. The recognition comes after years of meticulous investigation and international collaboration, culminating in Sherpa’s arrest in 2024 and successful prosecution in May 2025.

In a letter dated June 10, 2025, David Caunter, Director Pro Tempore of Organized and Emerging Crime at INTERPOL Headquarters, commended the MP Tiger Strike Force for its exceptional efforts in dismantling a sophisticated wildlife smuggling syndicate operating across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. The letter, made public yesterday, highlights the department’s crucial role in bringing Sherpa to justice and underscores the importance of continued cooperation to dismantle the broader criminal network.

A Nine-Year Manhunt Ends in Success

Tashi Sherpa first came onto INTERPOL’s radar in 2015, when the MP Tiger Strike Force identified him as a key player in an organized crime ring trafficking tigers and their body parts across international borders. Over the next nine years, INTERPOL issued a Diffusion notice against Sherpa and facilitated annual meetings between India and Nepal to enhance intelligence sharing and track his movements.

The persistent efforts of the MP Forest Department, in collaboration with Nepalese authorities, finally led to Sherpa’s arrest in 2024. His subsequent prosecution by the MP State Strike Force marked a significant victory in the battle against wildlife crime, setting a precedent for cross-border enforcement.

INTERPOL’s Praise and Offer of Further Support

In his letter, David Caunter lauded the MP Wildlife Wing / Tiger Task Force for its dedication and professionalism, stating that Sherpa’s arrest and conviction were a testament to the team’s hard work. He also emphasized the importance of continuing the investigation into Sherpa’s broader network, which remains active across multiple countries.

INTERPOL has offered to assist MP authorities in analyzing intelligence gathered from Sherpa’s case to identify other key operatives. Several members of the syndicate are still at large, with pending INTERPOL Red Notices and Diffusions against them. The global police body has proposed that, with India’s permission, shared data could be used to initiate joint investigations with other member countries, potentially leading to more arrests.

A Major Blow to Transnational Wildlife Crime

Wildlife trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar illegal industry, with tiger parts in high demand for traditional medicine and exotic trophies. The successful prosecution of Tashi Sherpa has disrupted a major supply chain, dealing a significant blow to the trade.

The MP Tiger Strike Force, operating under the Chief Wildlife Warden, has been at the forefront of this fight, employing advanced surveillance, undercover operations, and international coordination to track and apprehend traffickers. Their efforts have not only protected India’s tiger population but also strengthened global enforcement mechanisms.

The Road Ahead: Expanding the Crackdown

While Sherpa’s conviction is a milestone, INTERPOL’s letter highlights the need for sustained action. The criminal network he was part of remains operational, with key figures still evading capture. MP authorities, with INTERPOL’s support, are now focusing on dismantling the entire syndicate by tracing financial flows, identifying accomplices, and enhancing cross-border collaboration.

The recognition from INTERPOL serves as both an honor and a call to action. As wildlife crime becomes increasingly sophisticated, the MP Forest Department’s success sets an example for other states and countries to follow. With continued vigilance and international cooperation, the fight to protect endangered species like the tiger can yield even greater victories.

A Model for Global Wildlife Enforcement

The case of Tashi Sherpa underscores the importance of persistence, intelligence-sharing, and inter-agency coordination in combating wildlife crime. The MP Forest Department’s achievement has not only brought a criminal to justice but has also reinforced India’s reputation as a leader in wildlife conservation and enforcement.

As the world grapples with the escalating threat of organized wildlife trafficking, the MP Tiger Strike Force’s success story offers hope—and a proven blueprint—for future operations. With INTERPOL’s backing, the next phase of the investigation could lead to even bigger breakthroughs, ensuring that those who profit from the illegal wildlife trade face the full force of the law.