At Chennai Airport, customs agents confiscated exotic species such as ball pythons, marmosets, star tortoises, and corn snakes from passenger luggage. On January 11, the traveller landed at Chennai Airport.
Customs officers discovered 45 ball pythons, 3 marmosets, 3 star tortoises, and 8 corn snakes in the passenger's two suitcases, news agency ANI reported. According to accounts, the traveller left the suitcases at the airport.
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On Wednesday, officials received information about two unclaimed trolley bags at the arrival area, according to The Times of India. Authorities discovered exotic kinds of ball pythons, marmosets, star tortoises, and corn snakes in the luggage after scanning them.
Wildlife officials were notified following the recovery of the foreign animal. According to reports, the animals were isolated and fed. On January 12, the rehabilitated animal species were repatriated to Bangkok. The passenger's identity has been established. The traveller has been called for questioning by customs.
Customs authorities also confiscated four exotic animals from the suitcase of a male traveller at Chennai Airport in November of last year. An arriving passenger's luggage contained two Pygmy Marmosets and two Dusky Leaf Monkeys. The traveller arrived in Bangkok.
Notably, the illicit pet trade in Chennai is on the increase. Exotic animal species are imported from Bangkok and sold in Chennai.
(With Inputs From ANI)