The New Indian Express reports that the ducks, majority young, were found jam-packed in wire mesh cages. At least 50 of them were found dead and the majority appeared sick.

SPCA authorities have registered a case against the van driver for cruelty against animals. The seizure was made during a routine vehicle inspection led by East CI Sugathan around 10.30 a.m. at Kadappakkada.

The police later made the consignment to be unloaded at Ashramam Maidan. According to the East police, the driver of the van had confessed that the ducks were brought from Dharmapuri near Salem, through the Valayar check-post. About 30 ducks were crammed into each wire mesh cage, which can hardly accommodate 10.

The SPCA officials reached the spot following police information. According to the confession of the driver, the consignment was brought for street vending in various parts of the city.