Sri Lanka Customs’ Narcotic Control Unit, together with the Biodiversity, Cultural and National Heritage Protection Unit, has intercepted an attempt to smuggle six live exotic snakes into the country.
The detection was made when a Sri Lankan woman, aged in her early 40s, arrived from Bangkok via Chennai on IndiGo Airlines flight 6E1173. Upon inspection of her checked-in baggage, officers discovered the reptiles carefully concealed inside.
The seized species include:
1 Speckled Kingsnake
1 Yellow Anaconda
3 Honduran Milk Snakes
1 Ball Python
All of the snakes fall under CITES Appendix II, which regulates international trade due to threats posed by the exotic pet industry.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation provided technical assistance in identifying and handling the animals, ensuring their safe management.
Authorities emphasized that this detection highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in combating illegal wildlife trafficking.
Investigations are currently underway, and legal action will be pursued under the Customs Ordinance, the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, and the Animal Diseases Act.
