Mumbai Airport Customs Seize 16 Exotic Snakes From Chennai Man Arriving From Bangkok

In a major wildlife smuggling bust, Customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport intercepted an Indian passenger arriving from Bangkok and seized 16 live exotic snakes concealed in his luggage. The passenger, identified as Goodman Linford Leo from Chennai, was arrested under the Customs Act.

The incident occurred on June 27, 2025, when Leo arrived in Mumbai aboard IndiGo Flight No. 6E1052 from Bangkok. Acting on profiling and intelligence inputs, Customs officers flagged the passenger and conducted a detailed search of his baggage. The search revealed 16 exotic snakes, including garter snakes, rhinoceros rat snakes, albino rat snake, Kenyan sand boas, California king snake, and Honduran milk snakes-species that are either protected or restricted under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Following the seizure, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) and the Maharashtra Forest Department were immediately alerted and have since taken charge of the investigation and the handling of the reptiles. The snakes are currently undergoing medical assessment and will be rehabilitated according to wildlife protocols.

Authorities stated that the accused is being interrogated for further details regarding the source of the reptiles and the intended destination. Legal proceedings have been initiated under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act and the Customs Act.

Customs officials emphasized that such smuggling poses serious threats to biodiversity and biosecurity. This case adds to a growing number of wildlife trafficking incidents being detected at Indian airports, particularly involving exotic reptiles and birds.

Mumbai Airport has emerged as a frequent target for traffickers attempting to smuggle rare wildlife into the country. In response, enforcement agencies have enhanced surveillance and coordination with international and domestic partners to dismantle smuggling networks.

Officials reaffirmed their commitment to curbing illegal wildlife trade and protecting endangered species, urging continued public awareness and vigilance.