Airport security has been heightened as the smuggling of Indian star tortoises increases due to a surge in demand within Malaysia’s exotic pet market. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has issued a warning to Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad airports to be vigilant for suspicious activities involving baggage.
In July 2024, customs officials successfully intercepted three smuggling attempts, resulting in the confiscation of 1,343 star tortoises. Additionally, a follow-up operation by the forest department led to the seizure of 383 tortoises from a residence in Kolathur.
On Friday, Chennai’s Air Intelligence Unit received a tip from Air India ground staff about suspicious movement in the luggage of three passengers scheduled to depart for Kuala Lumpur. The individuals, identified as Kadhir Iburahim, Makan Mohamed, and Seyyathu Magthoom Yoosup Hussain, were apprehended, and their bags were examined. Customs officials discovered that the bags contained star tortoises concealed within child diapers. A total of 778 tortoises were seized and handed over to the wildlife warden for release into Guindy National Park.
The three suspects were arrested and are currently in judicial custody. Investigations are underway to determine the origin of the tortoises and the individuals responsible for the smuggling operation. WCCB officials have indicated that the rise in demand for star tortoises in Malaysia has prompted increased vigilance at southern Indian airports.
The Indian star tortoise is classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List as of 2016, highlighting the importance of continued efforts to curb illegal trafficking of the species.