THE HINDU (Chennai, India) 14 September 06 1,406 star tortoises seized - Handed over to wildlife authorities
Photo at URL below: Live star tortoise seized by Customs officials at the international airport on Wednesday. (D.Gopalakrishnan)
Chennai: A total of 1,406 live star tortoises, valued at about Rs.14.6 lakh in the international market, were seized from the baggage of a Malaysian citizen at the airport here on Tuesday.
At a press conference here on Wednesday, C. Rajan, Commissioner of Customs (Airport), said Loh Seng Hong was proceeding to the immigration desk after completing the check-in formalities.
It was then that officials of the Air Intelligence Unit, led by V. Devanathan, Superintendent, questioned him about the contents of his baggage.
The Malaysian national said his baggage contained only personal effects. But an examination of his checked-in stroller bag and suitcase revealed the tortoises.
The reptiles have been handed over to the wildlife authorities.
In another incident, the officials intercepted Ismat Abdul Salam, who holds an Indian passport, and found 1,982 live red-eared slider turtles in his baggage.
As the passenger did not have a quarantine certificate and an import licence, a fine was levied, and he was asked to take the turtles back to Singapore.
This is the first case involving the import of these reptiles.
1,406 star tortoises seized