The Customs Department at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) apprehended multiple individuals attempting to illegally import exotic species and contraband from Bangkok on November 9.
According to Bengaluru Customs, a husband-wife duo — identified as Mansoor (42) and Khairunnisa (35), residents of Kerala — were intercepted upon their arrival on Thai Airways flight TG 325, which landed in Bengaluru at 11:42 pm. Upon inspection of their luggage, officials discovered several exotic wildlife species, including One northern white-cheeked gibbon, One capuchin monkey, Four Visayan hornbills, and Two Javan mynas.
The couple failed to produce the requisite import permits or health certificates for the animals. The Customs Department immediately seized the wildlife and registered a case under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Authorities confirmed that the rescued animals are being cared for by veterinary experts and will soon be repatriated to Thai authorities in coordination with the Bangkok Customs and Wildlife Control agencies.
A senior customs official noted, “The import of exotic species without valid permits poses a serious threat to biodiversity and public health. Such smuggling activities are being closely monitored in collaboration with international agencies.”
In a separate incident the same day, another passenger arriving from Bangkok was detained for attempting to smuggle 2.99 kilograms of hydroponic ganja, concealed in his baggage. The seized contraband, valued at approximately ₹1.04 crore, was confiscated, and the individual has been booked under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Officials stated that both incidents underscore the growing trend of cross-border smuggling of wildlife and synthetic drugs through international air routes. Bengaluru Customs reiterated its commitment to tightening surveillance and strengthening enforcement measures at KIA to curb such offences.
Customs officers have also urged passengers to strictly adhere to import and quarantine regulations and warned that any violation would invite stringent penal action under Indian law.