A major wildlife crime investigation in Bengaluru has led to the arrest of a private hospital doctor from Jayanagar and the detention of six other individuals after officials uncovered a suspected exotic animal smuggling operation operating out of a residential apartment in Kumaraswamy Layout.
Authorities launched the raid at Flat C302 of Adarsh Hill Apartments following a specific tip-off about illegal possession and handling of exotic wildlife species. During the search operation, officials reportedly seized multiple exotic animals including ball pythons, lizards, and turtles, which are often associated with illegal pet trade networks.
Investigators also recovered suspicious items such as suitcases with airport baggage tags, suggesting possible international travel and movement of wildlife species. Preliminary findings indicate that individuals linked to the case may have frequently travelled to Thailand and Malaysia, regions widely known for active exotic pet trafficking routes.
The case took a further turn when officials discovered traces of cannabis (ganja) at the premises, adding another layer to the ongoing investigation. Authorities are currently examining whether the narcotics find is connected to the larger wildlife smuggling network or represents a separate violation.
The investigation has also drawn attention to a social media presence linked to the accused group. A handle identified as “@Zoo2You” is under scrutiny for allegedly promoting wildlife education programs conducted in schools, colleges, residential complexes, and public events. Officials are now probing whether these programs were being used as a front to display and circulate exotic animals.
Photographic evidence and online content suggest that exotic animals were being showcased to audiences, including children, raising serious concerns about public safety, wildlife protection laws, and ethical violations.
Officials continue to trace travel records, financial transactions, and digital communications linked to the accused individuals as part of a wider probe into what appears to be an organized wildlife trafficking and display network operating across domestic and international channels.
