Wildlife smuggling: Man nabbed at Kempegowda International Airport after 3-month probe

After a three-month investigation, officials of the Devanahalli Range, with support from customs personnel at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), arrested a man who had attempted to smuggle nearly 900 Indian star tortoises to Malaysia in August.

Forest officials said the accused, identified as Abdul Rahim Mohammed Kasim, had tried to transport 877 live Indian star tortoises — an endangered species — on August 6. However, he abandoned the bag and fled the airport before boarding his flight.

Forest officers launched an investigation after discovering the massive consignment of tortoises. CCTV footage from the airport was obtained to trace the accused and his network involved in the wildlife smuggling racket.

On Wednesday, Devanahalli Range Forest officer Nagarjun N and his team, acting on credible information, arrested Kasim with assistance from customs officials. Kasim was travelling from Abu Dhabi and was detained on arrival at the airport.

“Besides his passport and ticket, CCTV footage from August and other evidence were verified with the help of customs officers. He was produced before the magistrate and remanded in 14-day judicial custody,” said a senior official.

Authorities said further investigation is underway to identify others involved in the illegal wildlife trade.