Bhubaneswar, Mar 29: Custom officials at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) seized a variety of exotic species including 9 snakes, tortoises, monitor lizards and chameleons from a youth on Saturday.

The species were being smuggled from Bangkok, Thailand to Chennai via Bhubaneswar.

The youth who has been identified as Shankar Murgan of Tamilnadu has been detained for questioning.

According to reports, the Department of Customs intercepted a piece of luggage containing trafficked species being transported on a flight bound for Chennai. The rescued animals included nine king snakes, ten chameleons, twelve tortoises, and several monitor lizards. The custom department has seized his passport.

According to the information, these animals were brought to Bhubaneswar from various places for sale. Preliminary investigations have revealed a link with a businessman in the Patia area. The Forest Department is investigating who brought the animals to Bhubaneswar and for which purpose. The rescued snakes, chameleons, and tortoises will be kept at Nandankanan, as informed by the Forest Department.

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