The customs authorities at Mumbai's "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj" International Airport have announced the arrest of a passenger arriving from Thailand found in possession of dozens of venomous snakes and other exotic species concealed in their checked luggage. The operation, carried out yesterday, intercepted an attempt at illegal wildlife trafficking that has raised concerns among airport and health officials.

According to an official statement from Indian Customs, among the animals seized were as many as 44 Indonesian rattlesnakes, known for their dangerous venom. In addition to these, the passenger was also transporting three specimens of the horned spider-tailed viper, also venomous, although their venom is generally lethal only to small prey. The illicit cargo also included five Asian turtles.

The identity of the passenger has not been disclosed by authorities. The arrest comes amid increasing efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking, a practice that not only undermines biodiversity but can also pose significant health risks. This incident follows a previous arrest in February at the same Mumbai airport, when customs officials intercepted a smuggler attempting to bring into the country five siamang gibbons, small primates native to the forests of Southeast Asia.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the final destination of the animals and any possible involvement of a larger smuggling network. Authorities underscore the importance of vigilance and international cooperation to dismantle such illicit trafficking activities.