Taiwanese Traveler Arrested at Don Mueang Airport for Attempting to Smuggle Protected Animals
A Taiwanese man was detained at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport on Wednesday after officials discovered several protected animals hidden under his clothing as he prepared to board a flight to Taiwan.
Airport security officers operating an X-ray scanner reportedly noticed unusual movement beneath the passenger’s sweater as he passed through the checkpoint on his way to Kaohsiung International Airport. The man, identified as Chiu Kuo-shu, was stopped for inspection.
Upon further examination, customs and wildlife officials instructed Chiu to remove his sweater. According to authorities, they found two slow lorises, a squirrel, three otters, and two spiny turtles concealed in a white net wrapped tightly around his torso. The animals are all classified as protected species under Thai law.
Officials from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation confirmed that the suspect did not possess the required permits to transport wildlife. He was subsequently charged with illegal possession of protected species, attempted wildlife smuggling, and violating the Animal Epidemics Act.
Wildlife authorities said the rescued animals were transferred to the department’s care for health checks and rehabilitation. Thai officials reiterated that the country enforces strict penalties for wildlife trafficking, a persistent problem in the region.
Representatives from customs and airport security agencies were present during the arrest and the initial investigation, which remains ongoing.