According to the BBC, the arrest was the result of a joint operation between the Tiger Strike Force from Madhya Pradesh and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, according to the Indian Ministry of Environment. Investigations indicate that Lachungpa was part of a highly organized network, with branches in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan, in addition to operating in large urban centers such as New Delhi. The case draws attention due to its suspect profile: women are rarely arrested for their direct involvement in the illegal trade in wildlife parts.
Lachungpa was already arrested in 2017, but disappeared after being granted temporary release. Investigation documents reveal that she received smuggled goods from her accomplice, Jay Tamang – who was arrested in 2015 – in exchange for shelter. This Thursday, while making another court appearance, his bail application was again rejected.
Tiger trafficking remains one of the main threats to this species in India, which is home to the largest population of these animals in the world. Data from the International Fund for Animal Welfare recorded 26 cases of hunting in 2024, compared to 56 cases in the previous year. However, the entity warns that the real number is higher, as many tigers have been found dead with no clear signs of illegal slaughter.