Chennai Customs Seizes Endangered Animals from Smuggler

Customs officials at Chennai airport intercepted a Malaysian woman passenger on October 13, seizing four endangered siamang gibbons and 52 green iguanas hidden in her baggage upon her arrival from Kuala Lumpur. Acting on a tip-off, the authorities conducted a thorough search and discovered the exotic animals concealed in bags and boxes. Both the passenger and a driver who was to receive the animals were arrested under the Customs Act, 1962, and have been remanded to judicial custody while investigations continue. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau provided assistance, ensuring the animals were stabilized and fed before being deported back to Malaysia. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the illegal wildlife trade and the demand for exotic pets in the region. Further inquiries are underway to determine the extent of this trafficking operation.