Mumbai, India – Customs officials at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport apprehended an Indian national on Monday for attempting to smuggle wildlife, including venomous snakes, from Thailand. The man, whose identity remains undisclosed pending further investigation, was detained upon arrival from Bangkok after routine screening revealed live animals concealed in his luggage.
According to the Customs Department, officers flagged the passenger’s baggage during a standard inspection. Upon closer examination, authorities discovered multiple containers hidden within the luggage, containing live, venomous snakes and other unspecified wildlife. The animals were packed in a manner intended to avoid detection, in violation of international and domestic wildlife protection laws.
A senior customs official confirmed the breach of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which India is a signatory. This international treaty regulates cross-border wildlife trade to prevent species exploitation and extinction. In India, such offenses are prosecutable under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which carries punishments including up to seven years in prison and substantial fines.
“This seizure is part of our ongoing effort to curb illegal wildlife trade through Indian borders,” said the official. “The animals have been safely transferred to wildlife authorities, and we’re ensuring they receive appropriate care and handling while investigations continue.”
The case has raised fresh concerns about the growing role of India in global wildlife trafficking networks. Thailand, the departure point in this incident, has long been recognized as a hub for wildlife smuggling in Southeast Asia, with traffickers targeting exotic and endangered species for the illegal pet trade, traditional medicine, and collector markets.
Wildlife experts are now examining the seized animals to identify the exact species and assess their condition. Preliminary information suggests the snakes were highly venomous and posed a significant biosecurity and safety threat.
Authorities are now probing deeper into the suspect’s background and potential connections with international trafficking syndicates. Intelligence sharing between Indian enforcement agencies and counterparts in Thailand is underway to trace the source and intended recipients of the smuggled wildlife.
Mumbai airport, one of India’s busiest international travel hubs, has seen an uptick in wildlife smuggling attempts in recent years. In response, customs and wildlife enforcement units have strengthened surveillance, including increased baggage screening and intelligence-led profiling.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by the illegal wildlife trade—not only to biodiversity but also to public health and safety. Further updates on the investigation and legal proceedings are expected in the coming days.
