Page 111 - final fill 160 v28 with bleed.ai
P. 111
Smuggling in India Report 2024-25 68
f. Reptiles
Reptilian species such as iguanas, monitor lizards,
pythons, and geckos are commonly smuggled into
India, often via airports, seaports, and land
borders, especially from Southeast Asia.
Traffickers conceal them in inhumane
conditions inside baggage, parcels, or
hidden compartments. Despite regu-
lar seizures, the trade continues due
to high profit margins and weak
regulations surrounding the
ownership of exotic species.
Case 6: Exotic reptiles
seized at Hyderabad air-
port
In November 2024, DRI
officers intercepted 2 pas-
sengers arriving from
Bangkok at Hyderabad Air-
port. Examination of their
checked-in baggage led to
the recovery of 39 exotic
wildlife reptiles, including
Dwarf Caimans, Ball
Pythons, and Rattlesnakes,
concealed with plastic toys
and clothes.
final fill 160 v28 with bleed.pdf 111 12/19/2025 3:28:01 PM
