Mumbai customs seizes 95 endangered wildlife species at airport; 1 arrested

In a significant operation, Customs officers of Mumbai Customs Zone-III at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International (CSMI) Airport, Mumbai, intercepted an Indian national today (09th June 2025), leading to the seizure of multiple live and deceased wildlife species, some of which are protected under wildlife protection laws. The individual has been arrested in connection with the case.

Based on profiling, the passenger, who arrived from Bangkok on Flight No. AI338 was intercepted. The passenger exhibited signs of nervousness during questioning, prompting a thorough examination of their baggage. The inspection revealed the following wildlife species:

1. Chaco golden knee tarantula (Grammostola pulchripes): 1 specimen, not listed under CITES.
2. Tarantula (Brachypelma spp.): 1 specimen, listed under Appendix-II of CITES and Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
3. Iguana (Iguana spp.): 80 specimens (50 live, 30 dead), listed under Appendix-II of CITES and Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
4. Leucistic sugar glider (Petaurus braviceps): 6 specimens, not listed under CITES.
5. Fire-tailed sunbird (Aethopyga ignicauda): 1 dead specimen, listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, not listed under CITES.
6. Purple throated sunbird (Leptocoma sperata): 1 dead specimen, not listed under CITES.
7. Crested finchbill (Spizixos canifrons): 2 specimens, not listed under CITES.
8. Honey bear (Potos flavus): 1 specimen, listed under Appendix-III of CITES for Honduras.
9. Brazilian cherry head tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius): 2 specimens, listed under Appendix-II of CITES and Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

The wildlife species were seized under a Panchanama dated 09th June 2025.

The passenger was arrested under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. Further investigation is ongoing.