4 convicted in Wokha for killing Hornbill

Four persons were convicted of the “brutal killing” of the Great Indian Hornbill, described as a critically endangered and ecologically vital bird species, by the court of Judicial Magistrate First Class Wokha.
Wildlife Division Dimapur Wildlife Crime Control Unit officer-in-charge, Hukai H Zhimo, described the verdict, delivered by Judicial Magistrate Julian Silthou, as a landmark judgment, the first since the formation of the Wildlife Crime Control Unit in Nagaland.
While delivering the verdict, the court emphasized the severity of the crime and the need to uphold the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The convicts were identified as Myanthung Ezung (71) of Chanka Colony, Bhandari Town; Nribemo Patton (41); Renthungo Mozhui (37) and Rhyuzamo Patton (58) all residents of Likya Colony, Bhandari Town, Wokha district. They were found guilty for their roles in the gruesome incident that occurred in June 2022.
Zhimo recalled that video showing hornbill being tortured and killed went viral and had shocked the nation. The incident prompted widespread public outrage and called for justice and stronger wildlife protection enforcement. The video also drew attention of conservationists, civil society groups, and legal authorities alike, Zhimo added.
He said the brutal nature of the act not only violated legal protections but also struck a chord emotionally, given the hornbill’s cultural significance in many tribal communities of the Northeast.
The case was prosecuted on the basis of a complaint filed by Wildlife Warden H. Tokaho Kinimi, and pursued by assistant public prosecutor Renpemo Tungoe. The offenders were charged under relevant sections of the Act that prohibited the hunting, harming, and possession of protected wildlife species, including Schedule I species such as the Great Indian Hornbill.
Zhimo added that the conviction marked a significant milestone in Nagaland’s efforts to strengthen wildlife conservation and law enforcement. He said it also marked a precedent setting case under the recently operational Wildlife Crime Control Unit besides displaying the state’s growing commitment to tackling wildlife crimes with seriousness and accountability.
It may be noted that the Great Indian Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) is not only ecologically crucial as a seed disperser and keystone species in tropical forests but also holds deep cultural symbolism, especially among various Naga tribes. Revered in folklore and traditions, the bird is often seen as a symbol of valour and beauty. However, it faces growing threats due to habitat destruction, hunting, and illegal trade.
Zhimo also expressed the hope that the case would pave the way for better inter-agency coordination, community involvement in conservation, and the strengthening of legal mechanisms to safeguard endangered species.