A Malaysian national passenger was arrested upon arrival in the Philippines after authorities discovered 50 live Indian Star Tortoises concealed in his luggage on Friday night at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City.
The discovery was made by personnel of the Bureau of Customs after the passenger’s baggage passed through an X-ray machine at the Arrival Customs X-Ray Area. This prompted a physical inspection at the BOC inspection room, where the live tortoises were confirmed.
Following the discovery, personnel from the PNP Aviation Security Group and the NAIA Police Station 1 secured the area. The incident was immediately reported to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to assist in the investigation.
According to AVSEGROUP Director P/Brig. Gen. Dionisio Bartolome Jr., a foreign national, was arrested after failing to present the required permits for transporting wildlife specimens. He arrived in the country via a flight from Bangkok, Thailand.
The seized tortoises were turned over to the DENR for transfer to the Wildlife Rescue Center in Quezon City for proper care and safeguarding.
Authorities are preparing charges against the suspect for violations of Republic Act No. 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).