In a significant crackdown on the illegal wildlife trade, officials at the Kolkata airport have intercepted a consignment of rare and endangered animals, marking the sixth such seizure of exotic species at the facility this year. The late-night operation on Monday led to the recovery of two highly endangered golden lion tamarins among other exotic birds.
Rare Primates and Birds Intercepted
The seizure was made by Customs authorities from an Indigo flight arriving from Bangkok. The star attractions of this illegal haul were two golden lion tamarins, small New World monkeys known for their striking reddish-orange fur and distinctive manes. Also known as golden lion marmosets, these primates are endemic to the Atlantic coastal forests of Brazil and are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Alongside the rare monkeys, officials also confiscated several exotic birds. The avian contraband included:
- A pied sun conure
- Four lorikeets
- Two hanging parrots
Investigation and Legal Action Underway
Sources indicate that a youth from Thane has been detained in connection with the smuggling attempt. The case highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in curbing the illicit trade of protected wildlife through international air routes.
Jimlee Sarmah, the Joint Commissioner of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Animal Quarantine and Certification Services in Kolkata, provided crucial insights. He confirmed that since these animals and birds were brought into the country illegally without any mandatory health clearance, the formal process for their repatriation has been initiated. This step is vital to ensure the animals' welfare and compliance with international conservation treaties.
A Recurring Problem at Kolkata Airport
This incident marks the sixth time in 2024 that Customs officials at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport have intercepted exotic species. The frequency of such seizures points to a persistent smuggling network targeting India as a transit or destination point for the global illegal wildlife market.
The golden lion tamarin, a species on the brink of extinction in its native Brazilian habitat, is particularly vulnerable. Its charismatic appearance makes it a high-value target for the exotic pet trade, despite international bans. Authorities remain vigilant, and this latest successful interception demonstrates continued efforts to protect biodiversity and enforce wildlife laws.
