Thai authorities have arrested a teenager at a Bangkok airport for allegedly attempting to smuggle 30 protected tortoises valued at about $9,000. The animals were reportedly taped under her clothing, according to wildlife officials.
Officials grew suspicious of the 19-year-old Taiwanese woman due to her unusual movements as she prepared to board a flight to Taipei early Tuesday. This prompted a search at the departure terminal of Suvarnabhumi Airport.
During the search, authorities discovered 30 Indian star tortoises — 29 alive and one dead — strapped to her body.
According to officials, the suspect had used adhesive tape to immobilize the animals, placed them in cloth bags, and attached them to her body in an attempt to avoid detection.
The tortoises are protected under international wildlife laws and are highly sought after in the illegal wildlife trade.
Thailand’s customs department estimated their total value at around $9,000 due to strong demand for exotic pets in Asia.
Authorities noted that Thailand remains a major transit point for wildlife trafficking networks, where endangered species are often smuggled and sold on the black market.
The suspect has been charged with illegally transporting protected animals and evading customs controls.
Officials are also investigating whether she is part of a larger wildlife smuggling network.
Indian star tortoises are classified as a vulnerable species and are frequently targeted for illegal trade due to their popularity as exotic pets.
The surviving tortoises have been handed over to wildlife conservation authorities for proper care and will also serve as evidence in the ongoing case.
