Actor, aide arrested for sale of endangered live reptiles

NEW DELHI: A small-time South Indian actor and his accomplice were arrested on Tuesday from South Delhi for illegal possession and sale of endangered live reptiles, a top official said.

The accused, identified as C Manoharan and his accomplice NT Srinivasulu, were caught redhanded with a consignment of crocodiles and snakes at Nizamuddin Railway station by a joint team of Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) and an NGO, People For Animals (PFA).

The duo had come to the railway station to deliver the consignment of five snakes, including a cobra, and two crocodiles to some international buyers, a senior WCCB official said.

The live crocodiles were being sold at $2000 each and the snakes for $500 each, wildlife activist from PFA Manoj Oswal said, adding Manoharan has done small roles in some South India films.

The accused have been arrested and if found guilty by the court may face a fine of Rs 25,000 per animal and up to three years in jail.