Authorities make startling discovery in airport after inspecting passenger's luggage — here's what they found

Customs officers in India intercepted a traveler who was carrying 48 exotic animals stuffed inside luggage.

What happened?

As The News Mill reported, officials at Tiruchirappalli International Airport stopped a man arriving on an AirAsia flight from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on December 8. 

When they searched his checked bags, they discovered dozens of live creatures stuffed into hard-sided containers and small pouches.

Among the seized animals were 32 albino red-eared slider turtles, 13 green iguanas, and three albino raccoons. One of the iguanas did not survive the trip.

Images from the scene show turtles crammed together with bits of foam, packed so tightly they could barely shift position.

The man now faces charges under India's Wildlife Protection Act. Authorities returned the surviving animals to their original location and continue to trace the smuggling operation.

Why is wildlife smuggling concerning?

Illegal wildlife trade ranks among the most profitable criminal enterprises worldwide, generating billions of dollars each year. Animals like these turtles, iguanas, and raccoons are often sold as exotic pets or used in traditional medicine.

The toll on wild populations can be devastating. For every animal that survives transport, many more die from stress, dehydration, or injuries along the way. Removing breeding adults from ecosystems disrupts reproduction cycles and can push vulnerable species toward extinction.

Smuggling also carries risks for people. Exotic animals can harbor diseases that spread to humans, and releasing non-native species into new environments can wreak havoc on local wildlife and agriculture.

What can be done about wildlife smuggling?

International cooperation is growing. Treaties such as CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) set rules for cross-border wildlife commerce, and countries are investing more time and money into training customs officers to spot illegal shipments.

If you want to help, avoid purchasing exotic pets without verifying their legal origin. Support wildlife conservation groups that fund anti-poaching patrols and habitat protection, and report suspicious online listings for rare animals.

Do you think fracking should be illegal in America? Yes — everywhere 👏 Yes — in most areas 👍 In some areas 🤷 No 👎 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.