Shocking Seahorse Smuggling Racket Uncovered at Bengaluru Airport – Major Bust Exposes Endangered Wildlife Trafficking
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) dismantled an international smuggling ring involved in the illegal trade of dried seahorses at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on August 3. Acting on precise intelligence, DRI officials apprehended three individuals at Terminal 1. These suspects were traveling to Singapore via Mumbai on an Indigo flight when a search of their checked baggage unveiled 6,626 seahorses.
In India, all seahorse species are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, making any form of trade illegal and punishable. Furthermore, exporting wild animals and marine species or their parts is strictly prohibited. The discovered seahorses were seized under the Customs Act, 1962, in conjunction with the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The arrested individuals face severe legal consequences.
On August 4, authorities arrested the mastermind behind the smuggling operation in Bengaluru. This key figure, responsible for coordinating the procurement and shipment of the seahorses to Singapore, along with the three arrested mules, hailed from Tamil Nadu. The DRI has termed this operation the largest seahorse seizure in recent times.
The demand for seahorses in Southeast Asian markets largely stems from their use in traditional Chinese medicine, where they are believed to have significant health benefits. In addition, seahorses are considered a delicacy in some culinary traditions and are highly sought after as ornamental pieces for aquariums due to their distinctive appearance.
The DRI’s successful operation highlights the ongoing issue of wildlife trafficking and the urgent need for stringent enforcement of wildlife protection laws. This bust not only curbs the illegal trade but also emphasizes the critical role of intelligence and coordinated action in combating smuggling activities.
Photo Credit: L. Balachandar
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/dri-busts-international-seahorse-smuggling-racket-at-bengaluru-airport/article68491589.ece
Category : Bengaluru
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