Pune, May 22 -- The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 10 protected wild animals, including three Malabar giant squirrels and seven Indian star tortoises, during an operation near Pune Railway Station on Wednesday. They apprehended two persons for illegal possession and attempted trade of these species. Acting on a tip-off, DRI's Pune unit officers mounted surveillance at the identified location and intercepted the first suspect. During the search, officials recovered three live Malabar giant squirrels concealed inside two corrugated cartons. Later, in a separate location they recovered seven live Indian star tortoises from his possession. Both species are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, making their hunting and trade illegal except under special permission. DRI officials stated that they handed over the rescued animals and the apprehended individuals for further investigation. The two accused were arrested after a case was registered against them under sections 16, 39, 48, 49 and 51 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Chavan said pet shop owners often do not inform customers about species that are banned and people unknowingly buy protected or exotic species, leading to illegal possession....