Customs officers in Shenzhen have uncovered an unusual wildlife smuggling attempt after a woman was caught trying to sneak 26 live endangered tortoises across the border by hiding them inside layers of tight-fitting leggings.
The incident took place at the Liantang Port border crossing, where customs officers noticed a female traveller behaving suspiciously while passing through the green channel designated for passengers with nothing to declare.
According to customs authorities, officers became suspicious after observing the woman’s unusual walking posture and a visibly abnormal bulge around her abdomen.
She was stopped for further inspection, leading to a shocking discovery.
A detailed search revealed that the woman had worn two pairs of black compression leggings and used the space between the layers to conceal dozens of live tortoises strapped around her midsection.
Customs officers counted a total of 26 live tortoises hidden inside the makeshift compartments.
The animals were later sent to a forensic wildlife identification centre in Guangdong for examination.
Experts confirmed that all 26 reptiles were Hermann’s Tortoise, a protected and endangered species listed under China’s Class II national wildlife protection category.
The species is subject to strict conservation regulations due to declining populations and threats from illegal wildlife trafficking.
Following the seizure, the tortoises were handed over to the Luohu branch of Shenzhen’s Planning and Natural Resources Bureau for care, rehabilitation and protection.
Authorities said the animals would receive appropriate treatment before any further decisions are made regarding their future placement.
The smuggling case has since been transferred to China’s anti-smuggling authorities for further criminal investigation.
Wildlife trafficking remains a serious concern across the region, with authorities continuing to crack down on attempts to illegally transport protected animals across international borders.
Officials have warned that individuals involved in the smuggling of endangered species could face severe penalties under China’s wildlife protection laws.
