In a major crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking in India, authorities in Mumbai and Bengaluru have uncovered two significant smuggling operations, rescuing over 260 protected birds and reptiles and arresting two suspects linked to the illegal trade.

Mumbai: Over 200 Protected Species Seized from Crawford Market

In one of the largest wildlife rescue operations in Mumbai in recent years, a joint team from the Thane Forest Department, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), and NGO Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA) seized 226 protected birds and reptiles during a raid on the city’s Crawford Market and a nearby godown in Masjid Bunder.

The operation was initiated based on a tip-off from WWA’s legal cell. A 15-member team from various forest patrol units tracked the suspect, 39-year-old Mukhtar Shaikh of Thane, and conducted a raid once he opened his shop. Thirty birds and reptiles were discovered in distressing conditions, prompting further investigation which led officials to a godown housing the remaining animals.

Among the species rescued were:

• 10 Alexandrine parakeets
• 112 rose-ringed parakeets (11 of which were found dead)
• 67 Indian star tortoises
• 10 Indian tent turtles
• 16 Indian roofed turtles
• 10 Indian eye turtles
• 1 Indian softshell turtle

All species are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides them the highest level of legal protection.

Forest officials reported that many of the birds had their primary flight feathers deliberately clipped to prevent escape, causing permanent damage. Several reptiles, including turtles, showed signs of infection due to poor and unhygienic conditions. The animals were allegedly sprayed and kept on display for sale, adding to their distress.

Shaikh has been arrested and charged under multiple sections of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, including illegal possession, transport, and trafficking of protected species. He has been remanded in forest custody until August 12. All rescued animals are now under care at WWA’s wildlife rehabilitation centre in Manpada, Thane, where they will be treated and released back into the wild once deemed fit.

Authorities suspect that multiple shops in Crawford Market may be involved in similar illegal activities and have urged the public to report any information on wildlife crime through the forest department’s toll-free number 1926.

Bengaluru: Exotic Animals Smuggled from Bangkok

Just days later, Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru apprehended 20-year-old Shafiqur Rahman Sirajuddin from Tamil Nadu, who arrived from Bangkok with three check-in bags concealing 40 exotic wild animals and reptiles.

The seized animals included:

• 4 Argentine black and white tegus
• 27 green iguanas
• 1 corn snake
• 2 meerkats
• 2 bearded dragons
• 1 Indonesian blue-tongued skink
• 3 western basilisks

The animals were found stuffed inside luggage wrapped in tissue paper and diapers in an apparent attempt to avoid detection. A preliminary investigation revealed that Sirajuddin was acting as a mule for an international smuggling network. His local contact fled the scene as authorities detained the suspect.

This incident marked the third smuggling attempt at Bengaluru airport this month. On August 4, Customs officials intercepted a passenger carrying 30 Indian star tortoises bound for Kuala Lumpur. On August 6, another passenger attempting to smuggle 896 Indian star tortoises was caught.

Widening Concern Over Wildlife Trafficking

Wildlife officials have raised alarm over the increasing scale and frequency of trafficking attempts, noting that these incidents indicate a wider network involved in illegal wildlife trade. They stressed the importance of public awareness, as many buyers remain unaware that the animals they purchase may be protected or illegally sourced.

With both domestic and international trafficking routes being actively exploited, enforcement agencies are now intensifying surveillance, particularly at transport hubs and marketplaces known for illegal animal trade.

Authorities continue to appeal to citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious wildlife activity, reminding the public that even purchasing a single protected animal can contribute to the decline of endangered species and carry serious legal consequences.