Overview

• Mumbai Airport Customs intercepted two passengers arriving from Bangkok and recovered 120 live exotic animals cruelly concealed in jute and plastic containers.
• The haul included 115 green iguanas, two endangered Sumatran striped rabbits, three brown basilisk lizards and a Waigeo spotted cuscus, all protected under CITES Appendix II.
• Both individuals were arrested under the Customs Act and the Wildlife (Protection) Act as authorities launch an investigation into the broader trafficking network.
• Officials obtained necessary permits and will deport the animals to Thailand with support from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and RAWW specialists.
• This seizure follows two earlier busts at Mumbai’s airport in June and underscores persistent smuggling routes exploiting Thailand as a hub.