Mumbai: DRI Mumbai Zonal Unit Foils Wildlife Smuggling Attempt, Rescues 306 Exotic Animals

Mumbai, 29th July 2023: In a major operation, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Mumbai Zonal unit achieved a significant success by apprehending 306 live exotic animals that were being smuggled into India from Thailand via the Air Cargo Complex in Mumbai. This seizure was made in clear violation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

The DRI officers intercepted a consignment, which was declared to contain live ornamental fishes, at 4 am on July 28th at the Air Cargo Complex in Sahar, Mumbai. Upon inspection, the officers discovered a total of 100 turtles, 62 tortoises, 110 snails, 30 juvenile crabs, and 4 stingray fishes cleverly concealed with the declared ornamental fishes.
The recovered tortoises and turtles belong to various species, including Greek Tortoise, Red Footed Tortoise, Asian Spurred Tortoise, Yellow Spotted Turtle, Albino Redear Slider Turtle, Asian/Chinese Leaf Turtle, and Red-Bellied Short Head Turtle.

The smugglers’ attempt to sneak these exotic animals into the country was promptly thwarted by the vigilant DRI team. As the recovered animals fall under the purview of endangered species protected by international treaties like CITES, the matter is being handled with utmost seriousness.

The authorities are taking further action under wildlife law, including the rehabilitation of these rescued exotic animals. In this regard, consultations are being held with officials from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) and the Chief Wildlife Warden of Maharashtra to ensure the proper care and well-being of these valuable creatures.

The successful interception and rescue by the DRI Mumbai Zonal unit have dealt a blow to wildlife smuggling attempts, highlighting the country’s commitment to safeguarding endangered species and combating illegal wildlife trade.