Bengaluru customs foil smuggling attempt, rescue 3,000 turtles from Malaysia

In a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking, Bengaluru Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport intercepted a massive consignment of red-eared slider turtles on Wednesday. Acting on a tip-off, officials seized 3,000 of the exotic turtles that were smuggled into the city from Malaysia.

Two passengers, identified as Gopinath Manivelan and Sudhakar Govindaswamy, were apprehended upon arrival. Authorities discovered the turtles cleverly concealed in chocolate and cereal boxes hidden in their luggage. Preliminary investigations suggest the accused were working as couriers for an international wildlife smuggling syndicate. Their role was to transport the illicit cargo from Kuala Lumpur and deliver it to a contact waiting outside the airport.

Also read: Customs crack down on wildlife smuggling at Bengaluru airport 

Customs officials revealed that the duo were lured into the operation with promises of free travel, accommodation, and pocket money. The red-eared slider turtles, typically 4 to 10 inches in length, are in high demand in the pet trade and are frequently trafficked for commercial gain.

Following their rescue, the turtles were repatriated to Kuala Lumpur. A wildlife offence report has been filed, and further investigation is underway to identify other members of the smuggling network.

This incident comes shortly after the recovery of nine venomous snakes and other wildlife on a Thai flight, underscoring the growing challenge of curbing international wildlife trafficking through Bengaluru.