Fri Jun 20 14:58:12 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
An attempt to smuggle 54 green iguanas, one common spotted cuscus, and two greenfinch birds from Bangkok to Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport was thwarted by customs officials. The accused smuggler, Ahmed Jasim from Tamil Nadu, was arrested upon arrival and the animals were quarantined and returned to Thailand. Jasim concealed the wildlife within boxes of chocolates, biscuits, and other snacks and was supposed to deliver the luggage to individuals outside the airport. He has been booked under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and remanded in judicial custody.
**News Article:**
**Exotic Animals Seized at Bengaluru Airport in Smuggling Bust**
**Bengaluru, June 20, 2025** – Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport foiled a wildlife smuggling attempt this week, seizing a menagerie of exotic animals hidden within a passenger’s luggage. The illicit cargo included 54 green iguanas, one common spotted cuscus, and two greenfinch birds, all originating from Bangkok.
The alleged smuggler, identified as Ahmed Jasim from Tamil Nadu, was apprehended upon arrival. Authorities discovered the animals concealed inside carton boxes packed among chocolates, biscuits, and other snacks in his check-in luggage.
“The wildlife were found in a precarious condition, but thankfully survived the journey,” stated a customs official. “They have been quarantined and were sent back to Thailand on Friday.”
According to investigators, Jasim is believed to be a mule in a larger smuggling operation. He was allegedly instructed to hand over the luggage to individuals waiting outside the airport upon providing a specific code word.
Jasim has been booked under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and is currently in judicial custody. Authorities are continuing to investigate the source of the animals and the intended recipients in Bengaluru. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species.
First Piper 