Taiwanese Man Arrested for Smuggling Protected Star Tortoises from Thailand
A Taiwanese man was apprehended at Kaohsiung International Airport for attempting to smuggle 70 protected Indian Star Tortoises from Thailand, reportedly taping them to his inner thighs. The tortoises, bought for 800 baht each in Thailand, could fetch 25,000 to 50,000 New Taiwan dollars apiece due to their popularity among collectors. The man has been charged, highlighting the ongoing issue of wildlife trafficking.
Customs officials at Kaohsiung International Airport in Taiwan recently apprehended a Taiwanese man suspected of attempting to smuggle protected wildlife. The 37-year-old man, identified only as Chen, was accused of taping 70 Indian Star Tortoises to his inner thighs in an effort to transport them illegally from Thailand to Taiwan. According to a report by Radio Taiwan International (RTI) on June 26, Chen reportedly purchased these tortoises in Thailand for 800 baht each, intending to bring them back to Taiwan.
Indian Star Tortoises are highly sought after by reptile enthusiasts and collectors due to their distinctive star-shaped shell patterns. In Taiwan, the market value for these tortoises can range from 25,000 to 50,000 New Taiwan dollars (approximately 26,000 to 52,000 baht) per hatchling, depending on size and appearance, indicating a significant profit motive for smugglers.
Prosecutors in Kaohsiung stated that the incident occurred on February 10, when Chen traveled from Bangkok to Taiwan with all 70 live tortoises concealed on his person. Customs officers at Kaohsiung International Airport discovered the animals during a routine border inspection, seized them, and referred the case for prosecution. During questioning, Chen admitted to the offense.
Investigators meticulously reviewed evidence, including interview records, seizure documents, search reports, and species identification results provided by the Pingtung University of Science and Technology Wildlife Conservation Centre. Based on this comprehensive review, they concluded that there was sufficient evidence to prosecute Chen for allegedly illegally importing protected live wildlife under Taiwan’s wildlife conservation laws.
The Indian Star Tortoise is native to the arid regions of India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Its unique aesthetic has made it a target for illegal poaching and trafficking globally. This incident underscores the persistent challenges faced by international authorities in combating the illicit wildlife trade.