Bengaluru customs seize exotic wildlife from Kerala couple arrived at KIA from Bangkok

The customs officials at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru intercepted a couple from Kerala arriving from Bangkok and seized several exotic wildlife species that were illegally brought into the country.

According to officials, the seized animals include a white-cheeked gibbon, a monkey, and four hornbill, and two Javan Myna.

The duo were caught while trying to get out of the airport with the check-in baggage in which they concealed the wildlife. They were supposed to hand over the baggage to contacts waiting outside the airport.

The accused, identified as Manzoor Ali Thenethu Parambil and his wife Khairunneesa Kozhithodi, were arrested under provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, for illegal import and possession of protected species.

The duo, according to the officials, are part of the international wildlife smuggling racket and working as mules for them. A detailed investigation is under way to trace the source of the animals and identify possible links to international wildlife trafficking networks.

The rescued wildlife have been quarantined and will be deported back to Thailand.