The creatures were hidden within the luggage of two women who were flying to Chennai, India. Many of those who do survive are purchased as “pets” by people without the means to care for them, and as a result, they endure great stress from being confined to an unnatural environment as well as starvation and loneliness. The incident happened on June 27. Transporting sensitive animals over long distances and decimating animal populations are all consequences of wildlife trafficking. The Suvarnabhumi wildlife checkpoint manager, Sathon Khong-ngern, claims that when BKK officers x-rayed the women’s luggage, they found live animals. Exotic animals used in wildlife trafficking are traumatically and painfully removed from their natural habitats. Baby pythons have been delivered within CD cases, newborn turtles have been taped inside their shells and packaged into tube socks, and parrots’ beaks and feet have been taped and the birds have been packed inside plastic tubes. PETA is still advocating for more stringent animal protection laws. According to Jason Baker, senior VP of PETA, the group is thrilled to recognize the commitment of the customs officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport for saving more than 100 animals and thwarting two would-be wildlife traffickers. PETA Asia, the organization’s regional office, donated dozens of vegan doughnuts with animal themes to the wildlife checkpoint and customs staff at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. Last week, BKK airport staff members seized 109 live animals, including 35 turtles, 2 armadillos, 2 white porcupines, 50 chameleons, and 20 snakes. The sale of protected animals in stores, at auctions, or online is one of the world’s largest sources of illicit cash, ranking third only to the smuggling of weapons and drugs. According to a customs inspector, 80 to 90 percent of animals brought into the US illegally die. Smugglers are accused of violating Thailand’s Animal Disease Act of 2015, Customs Act of 2017, and Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019 at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
