Canadian Man Arrested for Carrying Baby Crocodile Skull at Delhi Airport

The Delhi Customs department has reported the arrest of a Canadian man after he was found attempting to board a flight to Canada with a crocodile skull concealed in his luggage. The 32-year-old's baggage was flagged during a routine security check, leading to the discovery of the skull, which is identified as belonging to a protected species.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered the skull wrapped in a cream cloth, weighing around 777 grams. Further analysis conducted by the Department of Forests and Wildlife confirmed it was the skull of a baby crocodile, a species protected under India's Wildlife Protection Act. The man claimed he acquired the skull in Thailand and lacked the necessary permits to transport wildlife items.

Delhi customs emphasized that possession of such items violates both Wildlife Protection and Customs regulations. An official mentioned that no evidence exists that the man hunted or killed the animal. Investigations are ongoing to determine the skull's specific sub-species.

This incident follows a similar case from the previous year when another Canadian individual was stopped at the same airport for carrying animal horns as souvenirs. As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant against wildlife trafficking at key transit points.

The case highlights ongoing efforts to protect endangered species, with strict regulations enforceable against smuggling wildlife.