Tejas Navale

Pune: In a significant operation, the Hinjewadi police have arrested two individuals attempting to smuggle and sell whale vomit, known scientifically as ambergris. The incident occurred on Saturday, June 22, in front of the Ranwara Hotel in Bavdhan, based on a complaint filed by Forest Guard Officer Sarika Darade. The police seized a portion of whale vomit valued at approximately 3.25 crore rupees.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Kishor Yashwant Dange, 45, and Sandeep Shivram Kasar, 62. Kishor is a professional driver, while Sandeep is a farmer and also runs a hotel business. Both are natives of Ratnagiri. According to police information, the accused were found in possession of a piece of whale vomit intended for sale without any valid permission.

Upon receiving a tip-off, the Forest Guard Department and Hinjewadi police swiftly conducted the operation in Bavdhan, resulting in the arrest of the accused and the seizure of whale vomit and other materials worth Rs 3,27,60,000. The police will send the seized materials, including the whale vomit, to laboratories in Kolkata or Nagpur for further examination. Subsequent actions will be determined based on the laboratory inspection reports.

Ambergris, commonly known as whale vomit, is a rare substance with several medicinal and perfumery applications. It is prized for its use in creating long-lasting natural perfumes and has significant demand in the market due to its unique properties. This high demand makes ambergris extremely valuable, often fetching prices in crores of rupees.