Customs officials at Pune International Airport intercepted two passengers arriving from Bangkok on Tuesday and seized a consignment of rare and exotic wildlife animals being smuggled into the country illegally. The passengers, who had arrived on an Air India Express flight, were detained following a tip-off.

During inspection, authorities discovered 14 Green Tree Pythons (Morelia viridis), of which 13 were alive and one was found dead. Additionally, four Double-eyed Fig Parrots (Cyclopsitta diophthalma) and two Sumatran Striped Rabbits (Nesolagus netscheri)—a species considered extremely rare—were recovered from their possession.

A case has been registered under the Customs Act, 1962, along with relevant provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The two individuals were arrested, and an investigation is underway to determine the source and intended destination of the smuggled animals.

A wildlife rescue team was called to provide immediate medical assistance to the seized animals, which were found in poor condition. The rescued wildlife is currently under expert supervision for rehabilitation and eventual repatriation.

The Green Tree Python, native to New Guinea and parts of Australia, is highly sought-after in the illegal exotic pet trade. Similarly, the Sumatran Striped Rabbit, one of the rarest rabbit species in the world, is classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching. The Double-eyed Fig Parrot, native to tropical rainforests, is also a protected species under wildlife laws.

Authorities suspect that the animals were being smuggled for sale in the black market, where exotic species fetch high prices. Wildlife trafficking remains a major challenge in India, with smugglers often exploiting international travel routes to transport endangered species.

Customs officials have increased vigilance at airports to curb such illegal activities. This seizure highlights ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and enforce strict penalties under Indian law. Those involved could face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines, if convicted.

The case has drawn attention from wildlife conservationists, who stress the need for stronger international cooperation to dismantle smuggling networks. Experts warn that illegal wildlife trade not only threatens biodiversity but also risks introducing invasive species and diseases into local ecosystems.

The rescued animals are being closely monitored to ensure their recovery before they are repatriated to their native habitats or handed over to authorized conservation centers. The incident underscores the persistent threat of wildlife trafficking and the importance of stringent enforcement to protect endangered species.

Further investigations are ongoing to determine if the accused are part of a larger smuggling syndicate operating across international borders.