Snake-stuffed suitcases! Customs foil exotic wildlife smuggling at IGI airport

New Delhi: Authorities at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi intercepted three Indian passengers attempting to smuggle a large cache of exotic wildlife into the country.

The operation, based on specific intelligence, took place early Sunday at 1:35 AM when the three men arrived on Air India flight AI 303 from Bangkok. Upon inspecting their checked-in baggage, officials discovered a concealed assortment of non-native reptiles and insects.

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Among the smuggled species were 22 snakes, including ball pythons, corn snakes, and milk snakes. The officials also found 23 lizards, including bearded dragons, crested geckos, Cameroon dwarf geckos, and an unidentified gecko. Additionally, authorities recovered 14 millipedes and a single spider.

The detained passengers, along with the seized animals, were handed over to the relevant enforcement and wildlife authorities for further investigation. Officials suspect that the smuggling attempt was part of a larger international wildlife trafficking network, given that Bangkok is a known hub for the illegal pet trade. The final destination and intended buyers of the smuggled wildlife remain under investigation.

Wildlife trafficking is a serious offense under Indian law, with the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and international treaties such as CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) strictly regulating the import and export of exotic species. Smugglers often exploit loopholes and lack of awareness to bring rare and high-value species into the country, catering to a rising demand for exotic pets.

Authorities have reiterated that such smuggling poses multiple risks, including the spread of diseases, ecological imbalance, and threats to native wildlife.

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