Poisonous snakes, Cobras, Pythons, Crocodiles recovered from passenger's baggage at B'luru Airport
Bengaluru: A significant operation at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) resulted in the rescue of more than 230 reptiles, including cobras, crocodiles, tortoises, and lizards, as Bengaluru Customs sleuths intercepted a wildlife smuggler on Monday night.
The successful operation follows the arrest of the smuggler, who was attempting to transport these creatures alive in two suitcases, according to sources from the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of the Customs.
The incident came to light when the 22-year-old smuggler from Ramnad in Tamil Nadu arrived on a Thai AirAsia flight FD 137 from Bangkok. Acting on suspicions, Customs officials detained and questioned the individual, leading them to discover the smuggled reptiles concealed within his suitcases. The seized creatures comprised poisonous snakes, lizards, and even small crocodiles.
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Among the rescued reptiles were four caimans, nearly 30 iguanas, four monocled cobras, pythons, tortoises, and lizards. The investigation also revealed the tragic fate of a young kangaroo or "joey" that had been hidden within one of the containers, ultimately succumbing to suffocation during transit.
"These wildlife smugglers introduce foreign species like the monocled cobras, originating from Thailand, which could disrupt the local reptile ecosystem if released into the wild," noted a wildlife expert.
The apprehended smuggler has been arrested under section 104 of the Customs Act and has been remanded in judicial custody. Further investigations are underway to determine his connections in Bengaluru and identify potential recipients of the smuggled reptiles.
The rescued animals were repatriated to Thailand on Tuesday night to ensure their safety and appropriate habitat.
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Yenepoya University conducts autism awareness campaign in Mangaluru
Mangaluru: The Department of Occupational Therapy at Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) conducted a community-based Autism Awareness Campaign at Fiza Mall and Ullal Beach in the city.
The campaign was aimed at promoting awareness, inclusion, and early identification of autism, in line with the global theme, “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value.”
The programme was led by Dr. Dhayanithi K and Dr. Ananya Jana as organising chairpersons, with Dr. Anas, Dr. Amanda S. Phillip, and Dr. Ansu V. David served as organising members.
Students of the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT) programme participated in conducting the campaign.
The event included activities such as flash mobs, street plays, face painting, mehendi, and direct interaction with the public.
These activities focused on highlighting early signs of autism, the need for early intervention, and the importance of inclusion and acceptance of individuals with autism.
The campaign reached around 300 to 500 members of the public. It also provided students with practical exposure to community-based rehabilitation and public health education.
As part of the initiative, QR-based digital resources were introduced to help the public access reliable information on autism.
“Awareness is the first step towards inclusion, and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes,” the organising team said.
The department thanked the university for its support in organising the campaign. It also acknowledged the cooperation of the management of Fiza Mall and the Ullal Beach Police Department in facilitating the event.
