Mumbai, June 3rd, 2025 — An Indian citizen was apprehended by customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai on Monday after attempting to smuggle wildlife, including venomous snakes, from Thailand. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was detained upon arrival from Bangkok when authorities discovered the illegal cargo concealed in his luggage.
According to a statement from the Customs Service, the passenger’s bags were flagged during a routine inspection. Upon examination, officials found several live animals, including venomous snakes, packed in containers designed to evade detection. The exact species of the snakes and other wildlife have not been specified, pending further investigation, but officials confirmed that the consignment violated international wildlife protection laws.
India is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates the global trade of wildlife to prevent exploitation and extinction. Smuggling protected species carries severe penalties under Indian law, including up to seven years in prison and substantial fines under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
The suspect is currently in custody, and authorities are investigating potential links to international wildlife trafficking networks. “This seizure is part of our commitment to combating illegal wildlife trade,” said a senior customs official. “We are working closely with wildlife authorities to ensure the animals are safely handled and repatriated where possible.”
Thailand has been a known hub for wildlife trafficking in Southeast Asia, with smugglers often targeting rare and endangered species for the black market. Mumbai’s airport, one of India’s busiest, has seen similar incidents in recent years, prompting increased vigilance by customs and wildlife enforcement agencies.
The seized animals have been handed over to wildlife experts for assessment and care. Further details on the suspect’s motives and the intended destination of the smuggled wildlife are expected as the investigation continues.
