Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu) [India], December 9 (HBTV): In a major wildlife smuggling case, Trichy Customs arrested a passenger for attempting to smuggle 48 rare exotic animals concealed in check-in baggage. The passenger arrived from Kuala Lumpur at Tiruchirappalli International Airport on December 8, 2025, by AirAsia flight AK-25, according to an official release.
During the examination of two check-in bags, customs officers recovered a large number of exotic wildlife species hidden inside plastic containers and small bags. The seized animals included 32 albino red-eared slider turtles, 3 albino raccoons and 13 green iguanas, one of which was found dead.
A case has been registered under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The accused passenger was arrested, and the rescued wildlife species have been repatriated to their country of origin.
Authorities said an investigation into the wider smuggling network is underway.
(ANI)