Rare bali Myna Birds Smuggled in Luggage,Indian authorities Say
New Delhi,India – A passenger arriving at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi was detained after customs officials discovered a disturbing hidden cargo: a collection of critically endangered Bali myna birds concealed within their luggage. The seizure highlights the ongoing threat of wildlife trafficking and the lengths to which smugglers will go to profit from the illegal trade.
Authorities intercepted the passenger on February 29, 2024, finding a total of 24 Bali mynas hidden in specially constructed compartments within the luggage. The birds, native to the Indonesian island of Bali, are listed as critically endangered by the international Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with fewer than 150 mature individuals remaining in the wild.The smuggling attempt represents a significant blow to conservation efforts.
“The illegal trade of wildlife poses a severe threat to biodiversity and ecosystem health,” stated a spokesperson for Indian Customs. “We are committed to strengthening surveillance and enforcement to combat this crime.”
The Bali myna population has been decimated by poaching and habitat loss. Removing even a small number from its home range disrupts breeding programs and recovery efforts – and it fuels a black market that directly undermines global conservation work.
Indian authorities have increased surveillance at major ports of entry, and agencies across Southeast Asia continue working together to curb transnational wildlife crime. CITES enforcement, international intelligence-sharing, and stricter penalties all play a role in reducing demand and disrupting smuggling operations.
The passenger is currently being questioned, and an inquiry is underway to determine the origin of the birds and the intended destination. The seized Bali mynas have been handed over to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau for care and potential repatriation.
People can help by refusing to purchase exotic pets, supporting accredited conservation programs, and spreading awareness about how wildlife trafficking harms communities and ecosystems. It’s also vital to take local action if you suspect someone of smuggling by reporting your suspicions to local authorities.
As global biodiversity faces mounting pressure, stories like this highlight the urgent need to protect wildlife before more species disappear forever.