Mumbai Customs Seizes 52 Exotic Reptiles In Major Wildlife Smuggling Bust
In a major breakthrough against wildlife trafficking, Mumbai Customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMI) intercepted an Indian passenger who was attempting to smuggle a large number of exotic reptiles into the country.
On May 23, 2025, she was sentenced to life, with a minimum of 15 years to be served. (Representative image)
The incident took place on May 31 when a passenger arriving from Bangkok on Thai Airways flight TG317 was flagged during routine checks. Customs officers, acting on specific intelligence and observing unusual behaviour, decided to inspect his baggage more closely. Inside the luggage, they discovered a shocking cache — 52 live reptiles, carefully packed and hidden. Among them were three Spider-Tailed Horned Vipers, a rare desert snake species known for its unique tail that mimics a spider to attract prey. The officers also found five Asian Leaf Turtles, a species native to Southeast Asia and frequently targeted in the exotic pet trade. Additionally, 44 Indonesian Pit Vipers were found, one of which had died during transport. The animals were in a delicate condition. Customs authorities quickly informed wildlife and forest officials to ensure the reptiles were given immediate care. Most of the animals are now under observation and being treated by experts.
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