In a major wildlife trafficking bust, Mumbai airport customs officials rescued 120 exotic animals smuggled from Bangkok and arrested two individuals, officials confirmed on Friday .

The animals stuffed into a consignment disguised as unaccompanied baggage - were seized during a routine check after the accused arrived on a Thai Airways flight. The rescue included iguanas, Basilisk lizards, Sumatran striped rabbits, and the rare cuscus, a marsupial native to Papua New Guinea and Australia.

Officials noted that many of the animals were found in distressing conditions, raising immediate concern about their health. Wildlife experts were called in to care for the animals, and a detailed inquiry is underway to track the trafficking network and possible local receivers.

The arrested duo has been booked under provisions of the Customs Act and the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Authorities say the animals will be relocated to rescue centers for rehabilitation. This incident highlights the increasing scale of exotic wildlife smuggling through Indian airports.