A Canadian national was arrested at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi for attempting to smuggle a baby crocodile skull out of the country. The incident occurred on Monday at Terminal 3 during routine security checks.
Customs officials grew suspicious of the passenger’s luggage, and upon inspection, discovered a skull wrapped in a cream-colored cloth. The recovered skull, weighing approximately 777 grams, featured sharp teeth and a distinctive jaw structure.
A preliminary examination conducted by the Department of Forests and Wildlife, Delhi Government, confirmed that the skull belonged to a baby crocodile, a protected species listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (WLPA). To determine the exact species, the skull will be sent to the Wildlife Institute of India in Dehradun for further analysis.
The passenger, who was scheduled to board Air Canada flight AC 051, was taken into custody under Section 104 of the Customs Act, 1962. Officials stated that the individual violated several provisions of both the WLPA and the Customs Act, including Sections 132, 133, 135, 135A, and 136.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges authorities face in curbing wildlife smuggling. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have vowed to take strict action against the accused in accordance with the law.
Authorities also issued a reminder about the severe penalties for trafficking protected species, emphasizing the importance of adhering to national and international wildlife protection regulations.
Sources By Agencies
