Often referred to as “floating gold” and prized in the luxury perfume industry, ambergris — a rare substance formed in the digestive system of the sperm whale — was at the centre of a forest department crackdown at Tungarphata near Virar recently. Four people were arrested trying to sell close to 2 kg of the substance, also known as sperm whale vomit.
Ambergris seized from the accused
Sources told mid-day that the prime accused in the case is currently lodged in jail in connection with another offence. The forest department is likely to approach the court seeking permission to question him as part of the ongoing investigation. Preliminary investigation suggests that the seized item is ambergris. The substance will be sent for laboratory tests for a scientific examination.
Official Speak
Prashant Deshmukh, range forest officer
‘Acting on a tip-off about an attempt to sell ambergris on April 13, our team posed as prospective buyers and laid a trap near Tungarphata. When the suspects arrived, they were caught red-handed with the contraband. Rajesh Jaywant Patil, Mahesh Motiram Vaishnav, Anant Keshav Gaikwad, and Sunil Vaishwekar have been arrested and booked under various sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Further investigation is underway to ascertain where they procured the ambergris.’
Did you know?
Ambergris, a dull grey waxy substance that’s created in the intestines of the sperm whale, is sought-after across the world since it is used as a fixative that stabilises the scent of perfumes to make them last longer, and in the manufacture of aphrodisiac products. This has often led wildlife conservationists to demand a ban on the sale of perfumes that use it. The now-dying sperm whale species consumes cephalods like squid and cuttlefish in large quantities. The indigestible portions are usually ejected from the body as intestinal slurry.
Appeal to citizens
The forest department has appealed to citizens to immediately report any information about illegal trade in wildlife and related items.
About sperm whale
The sperm whale, or cachalot, is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed predator. It is the only living member of the genus Physeter, and one of three extant species in the sperm whale family, along with the pygmy sperm whale and dwarf sperm whale of the genus Kogia. Weighing 14,000-41,000 kg, the sperm whale is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. In India, possession, transport, or sale of ambergris is illegal.
