In a significant crackdown, officials from the Customs department at Chennai International Airport successfully intercepted two major smuggling attempts over the past week. The operations led to the seizure of nearly 3,000 hatchlings of a banned invasive turtle species and a large quantity of high-value hydroponic weed.
Massive Turtle Smuggling Bid Foiled
Acting on specific intelligence, Customs officers intercepted a Malaysian national who arrived in Chennai on November 28 via a Singapore Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur. During a thorough inspection of his checked-in luggage, officials detected moving objects. Upon opening the baggage, they discovered a shocking consignment of live hatchlings.
The hatchlings were identified as red-eared slider turtles, a species notorious for being highly invasive. Their transportation and trade are strictly prohibited in India under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. Authorities revealed that these turtles are in high demand in the illegal pet markets, not just in Chennai but across several Indian states.
The wildlife was seized, and the passenger was arrested under relevant sections of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and the Customs Act. In a subsequent action, the seized turtles were deported back to Malaysia.
Narcotics Seized in Separate Incidents
In two other unrelated incidents, the airport's surveillance net caught drug smugglers. Customs officials intercepted two Indian male passengers who landed in Chennai from Bangkok on Sunday. One arrived on a Thai Lion Airways flight, and the other on a Malaysian Airlines flight.
One passenger had taken a transit route via Kuala Lumpur in an attempt to avoid suspicion. From him, officers recovered a substantial 3.42 kilograms of hydroponic weed, valued at approximately Rs 1.5 crore in the illicit market. The other passenger was found in possession of 650 grams of the same hydroponic ganja.
Both individuals were immediately placed under arrest. Following due legal process, they have been remanded to judicial custody, marking a significant blow to the narcotics supply chain attempting to use the airport as an entry point.
Ongoing Vigilance and Legal Consequences
These consecutive seizures underscore the heightened alertness and intelligence-driven operations of the Chennai Air Customs. The successful interceptions prevent ecological damage from invasive species and curb the flow of dangerous narcotics into the country.
The cases highlight the severe legal repercussions for such smuggling activities. Offenders face stringent charges under the Customs Act for evading duty and violating import bans, coupled with serious charges under the Wildlife Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act for the respective seizures. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining strict vigilance across all entry points to protect national security and biodiversity.
