All the species are protected under wildlife protection laws, making their possession and transport illegal. Photo: Special Arrangement
A 27-year-old passenger arriving from Bangkok was intercepted by Customs officials at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad, on September 27, 2025, after a routine baggage check revealed a concealed consignment of exotic wildlife.
Officials recovered one monitor lizard, a rare two-headed red-eared slider turtle, four green iguanas and twelve other iguanas from his checked-in luggage. All the species are protected under wildlife protection laws, making their possession and transport illegal.
The animals were seized and later deported back to Bangkok. The passenger was arrested, and further investigation is under way.
Published – September 28, 2025 12:09 pm IST
