Mumbai Airport Customs officers arrested a passenger for smuggling 154 exotic animals into India, officials confirmed on Friday. Acting on specific intelligence, officers intercepted the suspect at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport after he arrived from Bangkok. Authorities detained him immediately for inspection.
Officials Seize Hidden Exotic Species
During inspection, Customs officers discovered a large collection of rare wildlife concealed inside the passenger’s trolley bag. The recovered species included 66 corn snakes, 31 hognose snakes, 26 armadillo lizards, 11 bearded dragons, 4 yellow anacondas, 4 water monitor lizards, 3 yellow-footed tortoises, 3 albino snapping turtles, 2 red-footed tortoises, 2 iguanas, and 2 raccoons.
Officers arrested the accused under the Customs Act and the Wildlife (Protection) Act after confirming the illegal transport of the animals. They secured the seized species and transferred them to wildlife authorities for medical evaluation and care.
Investigators Track Wider Trafficking Network
Customs officials have launched a detailed investigation to trace the Bangkok-based supplier and identify the animals’ intended recipients in Mumbai. Investigators are examining whether the arrested passenger belongs to an organized wildlife trafficking network operating through international routes.
Authorities said they will continue monitoring airports and cargo routes to prevent further smuggling attempts and protect endangered wildlife from illegal trade.
