Pigeon suspected of spying soars free after 8 months of investigation; Details inside

Amidst the complex relations with our neighbours, especially given past instances of pigeons becoming subjects of investigation, a recent development has unfolded where a pigeon, initially suspected of being used for spying by Chinese authorities, has been set free after eight months in custody of a veterinary hospital in Mumbai. The Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals sought and received permission from the police to release the bird, marking the latest chapter in an unusual tale involving international intrigue.

The pigeon was captured in May of the previous year at Pir Pau Jetty in suburban Chembur by the RCF police. It had copper and aluminum rings on its leg, and messages in a Chinese-like script were found on the underside of its wings. Although the police initially registered a case involving suspicions of spying, the charge was later dropped after the completion of the inquiry.

Further investigation revealed that the pigeon had a history of participating in racing events in open waters in Taiwan. During one such event, it flew out of the country and ended up in India.


Following the police's "no objection" to its release and confirmation of the bird's satisfactory medical condition, the pigeon was freed by the hospital.

Inputs from PTI