Border agency foils two animal smuggling bids just days apart

The Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has thwarted two wildlife smuggling attempts at KLIA1, both involving Malaysians, just two days apart.

In a statement on July 27, AKPS said an attempt to smuggle several protected wildlife species out of the country was crippled in a joint operation involving KLIA Customs officers and the Aviation Security Force at KLIA1.

Recent months have seen increased scrutiny of airport security measures, with conservationists and government officials calling for enhanced baggage screening procedures to combat what has been described as a persistent problem affecting Malaysia’s international reputation.  

“Swift action by enforcement teams at approximately 10pm successfully detained a Malaysian man suspected of attempting to smuggle several exotic animals on flight MH0198 to Hyderabad, India,” AKPS said, adding that the suspect, aged 38, has been detained for further investigation.

AKPS reported that a search of the man’s baggage revealed two grey langurs, two siamang gibbons and two armadillos.

“All the animals are suspected to fall under the category of endangered and protected species under national and international legislation.

“The case is now being investigated under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716), and the International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008.

“All seized animals have been taken to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) office for further action. The estimated value of the seizure is RM73,000,” the agency added.

Meanwhile, in a statement today, AKPS also reported that a 36-year-old Malaysian woman had been apprehended after nine wild animals were discovered in her checked luggage, also en route to Hyderabad aboard Malaysia Airlines flight MH0198.

The seized animals comprised four siamangs, one long-tailed macaque, and four sugar gliders.

“All these animals are protected species and are believed to have been smuggled for illegal international trade purposes. The total value of the seizure is estimated to reach RM127,000.

“The case is now being investigated under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716) and the International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008,” AKPS said.

Top smuggling hub

Malaysia has emerged as a significant transit hub for illegal wildlife trafficking in Southeast Asia and is among the top 10 global smuggling hubs, according to the Global Organised Crime Index.

In June this year, KLIA was identified as a top wildlife smuggling hub into three major Indian airports, with a Thai airport sharing the dubious honour.

Using data obtained via India’s Right to Information Act, India’s The New Indian Express said that between 2024 and this year, customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport have made 23 wildlife seizures originating from Thailand and Malaysia.

Wildlife trafficking represents a major global criminal enterprise, with demand driven by traditional medicine, exotic pets, jewellery and accessories, and trophy hunting.

The trade threatens biodiversity and is regulated internationally through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, of which Malaysia is a signatory.

KLIA gets dubious honour as top wildlife smuggling hub to India airports

KLIA wildlife smuggling persists as MAHB defends its efforts

Passenger from KLIA arrested in India with monitor lizards stuffed in luggage

Over 300 exotic animals rescued from smugglers at KLIA

Ministry opens 10 investigation papers on KLIA wildlife smuggling

Foreign student charged with two counts of wildlife trafficking