Customs in India have detained a smuggler carrying 47 exotic pythons and two lizards in his trolley bag as he went through an airport.
The bizarre find was made after customs at the Tiruchirappalli International Airport, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, stopped a passenger who had just landed from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Sunday, 30th July.
When questioned, the man – identified as Muhammad Moideen – told the authorities he was on the Batik Air flight, but appeared nervous as they reached for his luggage, said media.
Upon opening Moideen’s suitcases, airport authorities were startled to find dozens of reptiles of different varieties and sizes concealed in several perforated boxes.
They immediately alerted wildlife officials who promptly arrived at the scene and discovered a total of 47 pythons and two lizards inside the man’s luggage.
Officials from India’s Forest Department instantly initiated a process to send the reptiles back to Malaysia in accordance with their policies.
Meanwhile, Moideen was apprehended and placed in custody under charges of illegally importing animals.
It was not revealed whether he faces jail for the smuggling attempt.
The news outraged netizens.
Twitter user ‘Thomas_pirro’ said: “This is serious animal cruelty. Good that they have prevented this! Thanks to the responsible and God’s blessing!”
And user ‘Existentialsoda’ commented: “Are there not enough snakes in India?? What’s happening there right now?”
While ‘Domesticgod8’ added: “It looks like border control at Malaysia is very very ‘porous’.”
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Story By: Georgina Jedikovska, Sub-Editor: Marija Stojkoska, Agency: Central European News
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