Custom officials recover accessories made from reptile skins

MUMBAI: Custom authorities have recovered several fashion accessories made from reptile skins at the international airport here.

One Thea Rummel, who arrived in Mumbai from Hong Kong on April 20 by a Cathay Pacific flight, was intercepted by Custom officials.

She was found to be carrying several handbags, leather belts and wallets made from skins of Reticulated Python, ostrich, crocodile, in violation of the Wildlife Protection Act.

Rummel, a designer by profession, had permits from Hong Kong CITES (Convention for International Trade of Endangered Species) Management Authority to carry these items, but their number was found to be in excess of what was allowed.

Against the permit for 35 handbags, she had 70. In the international market, python skin handbags cost a minimum of USD 180, as per customs sources.

Python wallets cost between $25 and $50, and python belts cost between $45 and $120.