Massive Wildlife Seizure at Kolkata Airport
In one of the largest seizures of animal export from India in recent times, Kolkata Customs intercepted two passengers traveling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Friday night and recovered nearly 1,100 protected and exotic animals and aquatic species covered under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Details of the Seizure
According to officials, 825 live Indian tent turtles, 246 dead Indian tent turtles, and 100 live Indian star tortoises were concealed in the passengers' luggage. The protected species were being exported without the requisite permissions and documentation.
"The animals have been handed over to the authorities for safe custody, rehabilitation or further action as required," an official said.
Previous Incidents
Searches in the past few days have already led to the detention of several Kolkata-bound passengers from Bangkok carrying silvery lutung monkeys, albino squirrels, and ball pythons. The trend indicates a growing illegal wildlife trade route through Kolkata airport.
Legal Framework
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 prohibits the trade of protected species without permission. CITES, an international agreement, regulates the export and import of endangered species. Violations can lead to imprisonment and fines.
