Teen arrested with 30 tortoises hidden at Bangkok airport

Authorities in Thailand have arrested a 19-year-old woman after she was found attempting to smuggle 30 tortoises through Bangkok’s main international airport.

The suspect was stopped at Suvarnabhumi Airport during routine screening before an international flight to Taipei. Security officials became suspicious during checks and carried out a search, which led to the discovery of the animals concealed on her body and inside bags strapped beneath her clothing.

Officials said 29 of the tortoises were alive while one was already dead at the time of discovery. The animals were identified as Indian star tortoises, a protected species that is frequently targeted by wildlife traffickers due to high demand on the illegal pet market.

Airport authorities handed the suspect over to wildlife and customs officers for further investigation. She is expected to face charges under wildlife protection and customs laws. Investigators are also examining whether she acted alone or as part of a wider smuggling network.

Wildlife officials in Thailand have warned that illegal trafficking of endangered species remains a persistent problem, particularly through major transport hubs. They say increased vigilance and stricter enforcement are helping to intercept more cases before animals leave the country.

The rescued tortoises have been taken into the care of wildlife specialists for assessment and rehabilitation.