DRI Busts Wildlife Smuggling Racket at Trichy Airport, 2 Held
Officials recover 45 live reptiles concealed in food packets from passengers arriving from Bangkok via Colombo.
- DRI recovers 45 live reptiles at Trichy International Airport.
- Two Indian passengers arriving via Colombo are arrested.
- Reptiles were concealed in 27 food packets and found sedated.
- Seized animals handed over to the airport’s Air Intelligence Unit.
GG News Bureau
TIRUCHIRAPPALLI, 28th Oct: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), in coordination with the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Trichy International Airport, has foiled an alleged wildlife smuggling attempt, recovering 45 live reptiles from two Indian passengers arriving from Bangkok via Colombo.
The interception took place on October 26, 2026, following specific intelligence. During a detailed examination of the passengers’ baggage, officials discovered the reptiles concealed inside 27 food packets. The animals were found in a sedated condition.
45 Reptiles Recovered
The seized wildlife included 23 corn snakes, 16 ball pythons, five Argentine black and white tegus, and one snow white iguana.
The reptiles were recovered during the baggage inspection and seized by the authorities. The two passengers were arrested by the AIU at Trichy under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
The recovered animals were subsequently handed over to the AIU for further necessary action.
Intelligence-Led Operation Targets Wildlife Trafficking
The operation highlights coordination between the DRI and Customs authorities to prevent the illegal movement of wildlife across India’s borders.
By acting on specific intelligence and conducting targeted inspections, officials intercepted the consignment before the reptiles could be brought further into the country.
The agency continues to focus on intelligence-led enforcement and cooperation with Customs authorities to tackle wildlife trafficking and prevent the illegal import of protected or regulated animals.
