Key Facts
• July 27, 2025: Thai authorities arrested a 53-year-old Japanese man near Bangkok.
• Over 20 animals, including 23 Indian star tortoises and 2 monitor lizards, were hidden.
• Animals were concealed in six candy cans inside the suspect’s luggage.
• The man was attempting to board a flight to Osaka on July 25, 2025.
• X-ray scans at Suvarnabhumi International Airport revealed the smuggled animals.
• Thailand is a hotspot for illegal wildlife trade, prompting stricter enforcement.
• The animals are popular as pets and easily purchased in local markets or online.
Summary
A 53-year-old Japanese man was arrested on July 27, 2025, at Suvarnabhumi International Airport near Bangkok for attempting to smuggle wildlife to Japan. Authorities discovered 23 Indian star tortoises and 2 monitor lizards hidden in six candy cans during an X-ray inspection of his luggage. The man was preparing to board a flight to Osaka on July 25. Thailand, known for its thriving illegal wildlife trade, has been intensifying efforts to combat smuggling. The animals, popular as pets, are easily accessible in local markets and online. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in curbing wildlife trafficking.
