A traveller attempting to enter mainland China through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge has been caught smuggling 15 live turtles hidden inside his trouser pockets, customs officials revealed.
According to Chinese customs authorities, the incident occurred on April 15 at the Zhuhai Highway Port passenger inspection hall.
Officers became suspicious after noticing the male traveller behaving nervously while passing through the “Green Channel,” which is designated for passengers with nothing to declare.
Customs officers also observed unusual bulges protruding from both sides of the man’s trousers, prompting them to stop him for further inspection.
A subsequent search uncovered 15 live turtles wrapped inside socks and concealed in the pockets of his trousers. The animals had a combined weight of approximately 4.15 kilograms.
Authorities said the traveller failed to provide any legal documentation or permits for transporting the animals across the border.
Following an expert assessment conducted on May 27, officials identified the seized reptiles as belonging to six different species, including Razor-backed Musk Turtles, Eastern Box Turtles, Ornate Box Turtles, Diamondback Terrapins, Striped Mud Turtles and Helmeted Mud Turtles.
Investigators found that three of the species are protected under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), meaning international trade involving the animals is strictly regulated.
Chinese customs authorities stressed that endangered wildlife and wildlife products cannot be transported across borders without the necessary permits and certificates.
Officials warned that individuals found smuggling protected species could face criminal prosecution if the circumstances are deemed serious.
The unusual case has attracted attention online, with many social media users expressing surprise at the discovery of more than a dozen live turtles hidden inside a traveller’s clothing.
