Katunayake, 11 September 2025 – Sri Lanka Customs Narcotic Control Unit, together with the Biodiversity, Cultural and National Heritage Protection Unit, successfully intercepted a Sri Lankan national arriving from Bangkok via Chennai on IndiGo Airlines flight 6E1173. The female passenger, in her early 40s, was found carrying six live exotic snakes concealed in her checked-in baggage.
The seized reptiles include:
1 Speckled Kingsnake
1 Yellow Anaconda
3 Honduran Milk Snakes
1 Ball Python
All species are listed under CITES Appendix II, and are subject to international controls due to the threats posed by the exotic pet trade.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation promptly extended technical support in species identification and handling, ensuring the safe management of the animals. This detection underscores the vital importance of interagency collaboration in combating illegal wildlife trafficking.
Investigations are ongoing, and appropriate action will be taken under the Customs Ordinance, the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, and the Animal Diseases Act.
Sri Lanka Customs remains committed to protecting biodiversity and preventing the country’s misuse as a hub for transnational wildlife trafficking.