Man tried to travel with 17 live animals in his suitcase in Thailand

Species like this are rescued by the authorities.

Abilash Annaduri, 21, was charged with wildlife trafficking.

An Indian man was detained at Bangkok International Airport with 17 live animals in his suitcases, including monkeys, iguanas and pythons, Thai wildlife protection officials said on Wednesday.

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“Authorities have arrested a man who was trying to travel with animals illegally to India,” said Prasert Sonsatapornkul of the wildlife protection service.

During an X-ray check of bags, authorities found eight monkeys, a fox, a raccoon, three iguanas, two lizards and two white pythons inside plastic boxes, hidden behind food.

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The suspect, identified as Abilash Annaduri, 21, was charged with wildlife trafficking. Authorities estimated the market value of the animals, some of which do not live in the wild in Thailand, at about $2,700.

The animals were sent to veterinarians for examination. Thailand is a major hub for wildlife trafficking, usually destined for Vietnam and China, where they are used for traditional medicine.

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AFP