The Customs Department, IGI Airport, New Delhi has arrested a Canadian Man for carrying a crocodile skull.
During a security check at Terminal-3, IGI Airport, a Canadian passenger scheduled to depart to Canada was intercepted. Upon examination, a skull with sharp teeth, resembling the jaw of a baby crocodile, weighing approximately 777 grams, was discovered wrapped in a cream-colored cloth.
The Department of Forests and Wildlife (GNCTD) conducted a diagnostic test. It was reported that the texture, tooth pattern, well-developed bony palate, and nostrils confirmed the item as the skull of a baby crocodile. The skull belongs to a species protected under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (WLPA). Further scientific analysis by the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun is required to confirm the species.
As per Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, it is illegal to possess and attempt to export a Schedule-I protected wildlife item.
Sections 132, 133, 135, 135A, and 136 of the Customs Act, 1962 relates to offenses related to misdeclaration, illegal export, and smuggling.
The passenger was arrested under Section 104 of the Customs Act, 1962 at 17:00 hrs on 06.01.2025.
The seized skull was handed over to the Department of Forests and Wildlife (West Division, GNCTD) for lab testing.
A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway.
This case highlights a serious violation of wildlife and customs laws. Collaboration between Customs and Forest Departments is crucial to ensuring such protected wildlife items are not smuggled.
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