A Colombian couple has been arrested after authorities discovered three baby monkeys hidden inside their underwear during a security inspection at Rafael Núñez International Airport.
The shocking discovery was reportedly made during a routine police check when officers uncovered the primates strapped to the bodies of the suspects, a 27-year-old woman and a 26-year-old man from La Jagua de Ibirico.
Authorities said the pair were allegedly attempting to smuggle two white-faced capuchin monkeys and one red howler monkey through the airport while evading immigration controls.
Tragically, one of the monkeys — believed to be the howler monkey — died during the journey after reportedly suffocating inside the suspects’ clothing.
Gelver Yecid Peña Araque condemned the incident, describing it as an act of extreme cruelty and a serious violation of animal rights.
He stated that the monkey had died under “inhumane conditions”, while the surviving animals were found frightened and distressed.
Footage released by Cartagena border police later showed the rescued baby monkeys clinging to plush toys after being transferred to a wildlife care facility for examination and treatment.
Officials believe the animals were intended for the illegal wildlife trade, with reports estimating the international black-market value of the species at more than £1.1 million.
The couple now faces charges related to wildlife trafficking and the illegal exploitation of natural resources.
If convicted, they could reportedly face prison sentences of up to 11 years, in addition to substantial financial penalties linked to environmental damage caused by the crime.
Following the case, Colombian police announced plans to tighten airport security checks and vowed to crack down on traffickers attempting to profit from the country’s biodiversity.
Both the white-faced capuchin and Colombian red howler monkey are protected species under international wildlife conservation agreements.
Authorities also revealed that this was not the first such incident involving monkeys hidden in clothing. In May last year, airport officers rescued six baby monkeys from another smuggling attempt, although two later died due to dehydration, malnutrition and signs of abuse.
