Kochi: Customs officials at the Cochin International Airport on Sunday seized 11 live exotic birds, all protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), from a family arriving from Thailand via Kuala Lumpur. The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) C Batch intercepted the trio - husband, wife, and their seven-year-old son - at the exit gate based on specific intelligence.

During a detailed examination of their check-in baggage, officers found the birds hidden inside small cages packed within a large suitcase. According to officials, the birds had been sedated to prevent noise during the flight and immigration checks.

Customs officials suspect that the incident may be part of a larger international network that traffics exotic animals and birds for breeding and for sale to high-profile collectors. “It is learnt that smugglers use common travellers as carriers, often couples with young children,” said a senior Customs officer. 

“Since families with kids usually clear screening faster, traffickers try to exploit this. The carriers are paid a commission once they hand over the contraband outside the airport. The arrested family went to Thailand for a trip a few days back. We are checking their backgrounds,” said the officer.

Customs sources said that there is a high demand for such exotic birds, and buyers will pay huge amounts to buy them from the smugglers. 

The AIU seized the birds under mahazar and, as required under CITES provisions, they will be deported to their country of origin.

“The birds are healthy, though they were under sedation. We have fed them after consultation with veterinary experts. They will be kept in our custody until the next direct flight to Thailand, after which they will be sent back,” said Customs sources.

Forest officials from the Karakkad station under the Kalady Forest Range took custody of the passengers. The husband, identified as Marvan Nachi (36) of Malappuram, was arrested, while his wife and minor son were released after taking statements. Nachi, who works as a driver, is listed as the sole accused in the case.

According to Forest Department sources, the seized birds include six Visayan Hornbills, two Iris Lorikeets and three Lutino Sun Conures. All species fall under Appendix I or II of CITES, making their transport without permits illegal.

“The accused has been booked under Sections 49M and 49Q of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022. He will be produced before the First Class Judicial Magistrate Court in Perumbavoor. We are trying to trace for whom he had brought the birds. Further investigation into the smuggling network is in progress,” a forest officer said.