Indian authorities are investigating a possible smuggling ring after discovering a live human embryo in a suitcase at Mumbai’s airport.
A Malaysian national was allegedly found with the embryo in a canister concealed in his luggage.
The man, who reportedly admitted this was not the first time he had smuggled embryos into India, then led officials to a high-end IVF clinic in the city.
But the clinic has vehemently denied being involved, alleging a set-up.
The Americans who ‘adopt’ other people’s embryos
‘Longest-frozen’ embryo born 24 years on
Frozen embryos give second chance to China mothers
The man said he was taking the embryo to the clinic when questioned, Rebecca Gonsalves, representing the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), which is investigating the case, told Mumbai’s high court on Monday.
According to the Times of India, a number of text messages backing up his claim were also found.
But Dr Goral Gandhi, described as an embryologist who runs the clinic, says this is not true.
Her lawyer Sujoy Kantawalla told the court: “The petitioner does not import embryos as part of her business.”
