Voodoo Link Suspected in Chandrapur Turtle Trafficking Case Chandrapur: A suspected connection to occult practices has emerged in a recent turtle trafficking investigation in Chandrapur, prompting the Akhil Bharatiya Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (ABANS) to demand legal action under Maharashtra’s Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act. The organization has raised concerns about potential exploitation of women and even human sacrifice, urging authorities to conduct a thorough probe into the case. The incident came to light when forest officials from the Sawali range intercepted six individuals in the Sirsi beat area near Chichdoh, allegedly transporting turtles for ritualistic purposes. Acting on a tip-off, officials set a trap and apprehended the accused while they were reportedly returning after performing black magic rituals. During the operation, two turtles and three motorcycles were seized. Of the six arrested individuals—Gangadhar Burande (49), Moreshwar Devtale (38), Rajendra Diwase (52), Omdev Shinde (25), Hemchand Shende (28), and Dhawal Veladi (30)—three were remanded to extended forest custody, while the remaining three are in judicial custody. ABANS representatives Haribhau Pathode and Anil Dhahafainkar, along with a delegation, met with Superintendent of Police Mumakka Sudarshan to submit a detailed memorandum calling for stringent legal measures and a comprehensive investigation into the occult activities linked to the case. Forest Range Officer Vinod Dhurve confirmed that the rescued turtles were released back into their natural habitat. He also stated that the investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence to determine the full extent of the alleged practices.#chandrapur #akhil_bharatiya_andhashraddha_nirmoolan_samiti #sawali_range #sirsi_beat #chichdoh
