Camilla Jessen
Shocking wildlife trafficking case unfolds in Mumbai as customs uncover live snakes and turtles stuffed into bags from Thailand.
Indian customs officers were stunned over the weekend when they discovered 47 venomous vipers and several exotic turtles packed inside a passenger’s checked luggage at Mumbai’s international airport.
The man’s identity has not been revealed.
He had flown in from Thailand and was detained upon arrival after a routine customs inspection took a startling turn.
This was reported by BBC.
Snakes in the Suitcase
According to a statement released by Mumbai Customs, the traveler was carrying a haul that included 47 Indonesian vipers, each hidden carefully among his checked baggage.
Also found were five Asian leaf turtles, a species native to Southeast Asia and considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal trade.
Authorities shared images and video footage showing the snakes and turtles — some of which displayed vivid blue and yellow markings — packed in cramped containers, visibly distressed.
The videos were shared widely on social media and quickly went viral.
Trafficking Route Under Scrutiny
India’s customs authorities have been on high alert in recent months due to a rise in cases involving smuggled wildlife, particularly through flights from Southeast Asia.
In February, officials stopped a passenger carrying five Siamang gibbons, small endangered apes native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
The animals had been crammed into a plastic box tucked inside a suitcase.
The gibbons were found in poor condition and were handed over to wildlife rescue groups.
From September to November 2024, Mumbai Customs also seized a startling collection of live animals, including: 12 turtles, 4 rhinoceros hornbills, and 5 baby caimans (a type of small crocodilian).
Authorities say they are now coordinating with both Thai and Indian agencies to investigate further.
The detained passenger is expected to face charges under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, which prohibits the import and export of endangered species without proper permits.