By Our Correspondent
National News – Thai authorities in Bangkok have arrested a 19-year-old Taiwanese woman at Suvarnabhumi International Airport for allegedly smuggling 30 protected Indian star tortoises valued at about $9,000, taped under her clothing while attempting to board a flight to Taipei.
The arrest took place during routine departure checks as officers monitored passenger behaviour at the busy airport.
Authorities say the suspect was intercepted early Tuesday, April 28, 2026, after exhibiting suspicious movement patterns linked to possible wildlife trafficking activity.
A detailed search revealed 29 live tortoises and one dead tortoise strapped tightly to her body using adhesive tape and concealed inside cloth bags, a method designed to bypass customs detection systems.
The wildlife agency added that the Indian star tortoise is listed as a vulnerable species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), making its illegal transport a serious wildlife crime.
Officials estimated the seized animals had a combined black market value of around $9,000, highlighting Asia’s ongoing demand for exotic pets and wildlife trafficking routes through Thailand, a major transit hub.
The surviving tortoises were transferred to conservation authorities for treatment and evidence handling, while investigators are probing possible links to an organised smuggling network operating across borders.
This incident raises concerns over illegal wildlife trafficking, with authorities reiterating efforts to strengthen airport screening and international cooperation.
The case underscores Thailand’s role as a transit point in global wildlife crime networks and the ongoing need for stricter enforcement against endangered species trafficking.
Authorities continue investigations to determine whether the suspect acted alone or as part of a wider cross-border syndicate, as wildlife crime enforcement agencies intensify monitoring at major airports across Southeast Asia to curb illegal trade in endangered species and protect vulnerable biodiversity.
Officials say further arrests may follow as intelligence gathering continues.
