DRI busts wildlife smuggling racket at Trichy Airport, recovers 45 live reptiles

New Delhi: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has foiled an attempt at wildlife smuggling at Trichy International Airport. Officers recovered 45 live reptiles and arrested two passengers. The DRI carried out the operation in coordination with the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU), Trichy.

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers intercepted two Indian passengers on October 26, 2026. The passengers were arriving from Bangkok via Colombo. A systematic examination of their baggage led to the recovery of live wildlife concealed in 27 food packets. The animals were in a sedated condition.

Reptiles seized in Trichy wildlife smuggling case

The recovered reptiles comprised 23 Corn Snakes, 16 Ball Pythons, five Argentine Black and White Tegus and one Snow White Iguana. Officers seized the animals during the baggage examination. They then handed them over to AIU, Trichy, for further necessary action.

AIU, Trichy, arrested the two passengers under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. DRI said the interception underscores its commitment to combating wildlife trafficking. It added that intelligence-led enforcement and close coordination with Customs authorities help prevent the illegal movement of wildlife into the country.