Inp.polri.go.id - Tangerang The Customs and Excise Office at Soekarno-Hatta Airport has prevented an attempt to smuggle 56 rare animals to India.

Gatot Sugeng Wibowo, the Head of the Soekarno Hatta Customs Office,  said on Wednesday (7/8/2024) that the operation uncovered the smuggling attempt on 29 July and 1 August 2024.

The suspects, all Indian nationals, were caught with the animals, consisting of 50 endemic birds,five primates, and one marsupial, hidden in their luggage.

The animals, including various rare birds, were discovered after customs and airport security raised suspicions. The smugglers had been promised a vacation in Indonesia and paid about 10,000 Rupees (around Rp 2 million).

The investigation is ongoing to identify the main organizer and the source of the animals. 

The suspects face charges under Customs Law, with potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to Rp 5 billion.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)