Two Women Arrested at Airport for Attempting to Smuggle Over 4,000 Turtles

Two Chinese women have been arrested at Hanoi Airport, Vietnam, while attempting to smuggle more than 4,000 turtles in their luggage.

The suspects, whose names have not been disclosed, tried to transport the turtles hidden inside seven large suitcases. They were caught while attempting to travel from Malaysia to Vietnam undetected.

Unfortunately for them, authorities—including the Airport Aviation Safety Authority, the Wildlife Conservation Department, and the National Park Service—intercepted their illegal operation.

Upon their arrest, officials were alerted about two passengers carrying suspicious luggage. A thorough investigation revealed thousands of pig-nosed turtles packed into small plastic containers inside their suitcases.

During police interrogation, the women failed to present valid export permits. Reports confirmed they were attempting to smuggle approximately 4,386 turtles out of Malaysia.

The animals, valued at an estimated £31.3 million, were immediately seized by authorities.

Dato Abdul Kadir, director of Malaysia’s Wildlife Conservation and National Park Service, confirmed the arrest, revealing that the suspects are 43 and 34 years old. He also stated that four wildlife officials and six airport security officers were involved in the operation and they have also been arrested.

The arrests took place at Terminal 2 of Kuala Lumpur International Airport around 12:20 PM on February 18.