Wildlife smuggling busted at Trichy Airport, 45 live reptiles seized

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has foiled an attempt to smuggle wildlife at the Trichy International Airport. The DRI, in coordination with the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU), Trichy, conducted an operation in which 45 live reptiles were seized and two passengers were arrested.

According to a PIB report, officials acted on specific intelligence on 26 October 2026. Two Indian passengers arriving from Bangkok via Colombo were intercepted. When their luggage was thoroughly checked, live wildlife hidden in 27 food packets were found. These animals were in a sedated condition.

The seized reptiles include 23 corn snakes, 16 ball pythons, 5 Argentine black and white tegus, and 1 snow white iguana. These wildlife were seized and handed over to the AIU, Trichy, for further necessary action.

During this operation, both passengers were arrested by the AIU, Trichy, under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. According to the PIB, this success demonstrates the DRI's commitment to curbing the illegal movement of wildlife in the country. This operation was successful due to the close coordination between the DRI and customs authorities and intelligence-based enforcement to combat wildlife smuggling.