Major Dried Seahorse Smuggling Ring Busted In Tamil Nadu

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a significant smuggling network of dried seahorses with the arrest of three individuals from Tamil Nadu at Kempegowda International Airport. A total of 6,626 dried seahorses intended for illegal export to Singapore were seized, violating numerous wildlife protection and export laws.

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully dismantled a major smuggling ring involved in the illegal trade of dried seahorses. On August 3rd, DRI officers apprehended three individuals from Tamil Nadu at Kempegowda International Airport, seizing 6,626 dried seahorses from their checked baggage.

The suspects, en route to Singapore via Mumbai, were part of a private airline's flight. This is the largest seizure of dried seahorses in recent times, according to a DRI official. All three individuals are currently under investigation for violating the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Customs Act, 1962.

During a meticulously planned operation on August 4th, the key figure behind the smuggling operation was apprehended. Authorities believe dried seahorses are in high demand in Southeast Asian markets for traditional medicine, gourmet cuisine, and ornamental purposes. The investigation aims to uncover the broader smuggling network operating between India and Southeast Asia.