IN a major breakthrough in the battle against international wildlife trafficking, 116 tortoises have been successfully repatriated to Tanzania after being intercepted in Thailand more than two years ago.

The tortoises, including critically endangered species, will now serve as crucial evidence in the prosecution of a Ukrainian smuggler. The animals were seized in July 2022 when a Ukrainian woman was stopped by customs officials at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport during an INTERPOL operation. Concealed in her luggage, the tortoises were destined for the illegal exotic pet trade. Following her arrest, a global investigation led to the dismantling of an international wildlife trafficking ring and the arrest of 14 individuals from countries including Egypt, Indonesia, Madagascar, and Tanzania.

A formal handover ceremony took place in Bangkok on Thursday, with senior officials from Thailand and Tanzania present, marking the successful repatriation of the animals.

Police Major General Surapan Thaiprasert, Commander of the Foreign Affairs Division at the Royal Thai Police, expressed pride in the collaboration. He said, “Thailand worked closely with INTERPOL and our partners in Tanzania on this significant case. Through our robust detection capabilities, we intercepted the smuggler and saved the tortoises. Their return is a testament to our shared commitment to combat wildlife crime.”

The 116 tortoises returned to Tanzania include pancake tortoises, radiated tortoises, and Aldabra giant tortoises, all of which are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Tragically, some of the animals did not survive the traumatic conditions of being smuggled despite immediate care provided by Thai authorities. However, all 116 tortoises were repatriated as evidence in the ongoing case.

The illegal trade in endangered tortoises remains a significant global issue. These species are often taken from their natural habitats and trafficked internationally, where they are sold as exotic pets. This type of wildlife trafficking not only threatens biodiversity but also fuels organized crime networks that profit from exploiting vulnerable species.

Cyril Gout, Acting Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL, emphasized the importance of international cooperation: “Wildlife trafficking is a global threat that disrupts ecosystems, harms local communities, and enriches criminal networks. This case highlights the dedication of law enforcement agencies worldwide to protect endangered species and bring wildlife criminals to justice. INTERPOL plays a critical role in facilitating coordinated global efforts to combat wildlife crime.”

Following her arrest in Thailand, the smuggler fled the country before facing full prosecution. However, through an INTERPOL Red Notice, she was tracked down in Bulgaria in March 2023 and extradited to Tanzania in June 2023. This led to the revelation that she was part of a larger trafficking network.

INTERPOL provided vital investigative and operational support, helping authorities identify additional suspects and resulting in the arrest of 14 individuals involved in the operation.

Ramadhan Hamisi Kingai, Director of Criminal Investigations at the Tanzania Police Force, expressed gratitude for the international collaboration that made the operation a success: “From the capture of the suspect to the repatriation of the tortoises, this success is a direct result of strong international collaboration and a multi-agency approach facilitated through INTERPOL. Tanzania remains committed to combating wildlife crime and will continue to work with other countries to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.”

Upon arrival in Tanzania, the surviving tortoises will be placed in quarantine and cared for by local wildlife officials. Authorities will assess their health and, if suitable for release, work to return them to their natural habitats.