In a bizarre and illegal wildlife trade case, a self-styled godman in Bengaluru has been arrested for allegedly selling monitor lizard genitalia online, claiming the protected animal parts possessed “magical powers” to resolve relationship issues. The case, uncovered with the help of a wildlife protection NGO, has shed light on the illegal commercialization of endangered species under the guise of spiritual or tantric remedies.

The accused, identified as Murthy, 45, operated from his residence in Nagashettihalli, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Authorities said Murthy marketed himself as a spiritual healer and told clients that monitor lizard genitalia could help with love attraction, reconciliation between couples, and controlling partners. According to officials, each piece was sold for around ₹10,000, targeting individuals seeking solutions to personal or romantic problems.

“He convinced clients that he could solve love marriage disputes and relationship issues using so-called tantric remedies,” an official involved in the investigation said.

How the Case Came to Light

The investigation began after a wildlife protection NGO received intelligence about the illegal online sale of wildlife products. Acting on the information, an NGO member posed as a prospective client, claiming to face relationship issues. During this interaction, Murthy allegedly displayed the wildlife items and explained their supposed “spiritual benefits”.

“He openly showed the wildlife articles and explained how they were used for ‘spiritual benefits,’” a joint director with the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) said. “That’s when we were alerted, and a coordinated operation was launched.”

Arrest and Seizure

Following the tip-off, the DRI conducted a joint operation and arrested Murthy on Friday. During a raid on his residence, officials seized:

• 206 monitor lizard genitalia
• About 1.5 kilograms of red coral
• A tiger skin
• Several other wildlife and religious-related items

A senior DRI official confirmed the seizure, stating, “This is a serious violation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. Monitor lizards are protected species, and trading any body part is a punishable offence.”

Investigators said Murthy sourced these wildlife products through contacts linked to the Hakki Pikki community in Tamil Nadu and other regions. Over time, he had amassed a significant following, with preliminary inquiries indicating that nearly 25,000 people followed him online. Many approached him seeking solutions for personal, love, or marriage-related issues.

Authorities also alleged that Murthy sold red coral as a talisman for “luck and prosperity” through social media platforms. His digital and financial trails are now being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.

“All seized wildlife products have been handed over to the Bannerghatta forest authorities for further examination and documentation,” an official said.

Legal Implications

Murthy faces charges under multiple provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, which strictly prohibits the sale, trade, or possession of body parts from protected species. The DRI is investigating to trace both his suppliers and buyers, aiming to dismantle the network that enabled this illegal trade.

Experts in wildlife protection have expressed concern over the misuse of endangered species in spiritual or superstitious practices. “This case highlights how vulnerable species like monitor lizards are exploited under the pretext of supernatural remedies,” said a wildlife official. “Awareness and strict enforcement are essential to prevent such incidents.”

Broader Concerns

Cases like Murthy’s are not isolated. Across India, various self-styled spiritual practitioners have reportedly exploited public belief in tantric or mystical solutions to sell illegal wildlife products, from tiger parts to rare corals. Authorities warn that such practices not only threaten biodiversity but also fuel criminal networks that traffic in endangered species.

Murthy’s arrest is expected to serve as a warning to others engaged in similar activities. Officials emphasized that public participation is crucial for reporting suspicious activity online, particularly sales involving protected animals or prohibited wildlife products.

The DRI has said that further investigation is underway to understand the full scale of Murthy’s operations, including identifying other individuals who may have supplied the wildlife products or purchased them from him. Officials are also coordinating with state forest departments to ensure that all seized wildlife articles are documented and stored appropriately, in compliance with conservation regulations.

This incident underscores the continuing challenge of curbing illegal wildlife trade in India, particularly in urban centers like Bengaluru, where digital platforms can be exploited to reach a wide audience. With strong legal frameworks such as the Wildlife (Protection) Act in place, authorities remain vigilant against the illegal commodification of endangered species.

The arrest of Murthy also raises questions about the regulation of online spiritual services, which often operate in legal grey areas, and highlights the need for public awareness about the illegality and ethical implications of using wildlife products for personal or mystical purposes.

Authorities are urging citizens to remain alert and report any suspected sale of protected species online. The case is ongoing, and investigators are continuing efforts to identify all parties involved in Murthy’s network, with the goal of preventing further exploitation of endangered wildlife.