Bengaluru: In a recent operation at Bengaluru airport, authorities discovered and rescued a total of 72 exotic snakes and found six Capuchin monkeys dead. A Customs official provided details, stating that among the animals, there were 55 Ball Pythons of various color morphs and 17 King Cobras, all of which were found alive and in active condition. Sadly, six Capuchin monkeys were found deceased.
These animals were seized under Section 110 of the Customs Act. The living creatures have been repatriated to their country of origin, while the deceased animals were disposed of following proper sanitary procedures.
The Customs official noted that all 78 of these animals are classified under Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and Schedule I & IV of the Wildlife Protection Act. This indicates that these species are subject to strict international and national regulations due to their protected status.
Further investigations into the matter are currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the illegal transportation of these animals and any potential individuals involved in this activity.
