The animals were seized under multiple Indian wildlife protection laws. Photo: Mumbai Customs/X
Authorities in India have arrested a man for attempting to smuggle dozens of rare and venomous reptiles into the country, including 47 highly dangerous snakes.
The Indian national, who had arrived from Thailand, was intercepted by customs officials at Mumbai’s international airport on Sunday during a routine baggage check.
Officials uncovered a shocking array of wildlife hidden inside his checked-in luggage, including three spider-tailed horned vipers, five Asian leaf turtles, and 44 Indonesian pit vipers.
Photographs released by the Mumbai Customs Department on X showed vividly colored snakes writhing in containers, a sight that sparked alarm and outrage online.
While the exact source of the reptiles remains unknown, officials say the smuggled animals pose a serious threat to biodiversity and public safety. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, remains in custody and has yet to make a statement regarding the incident.
Authorities say the case highlights the growing threat of wildlife trafficking through international transit hubs and have vowed to intensify efforts to curb the illegal trade.
FRCN
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