The women were about to board a flight to Chennai, India, according to Thailand’s Ministry of National Park, Nature and Plant Conservation. But during the baggage inspection, the X-ray machine went off and the animals were discovered.
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Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation
Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation
Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation
The conservation authorities were immediately alerted. Two of the chameleons had already died. The porcupines and armadillos were very stressed and scared and many of the reptiles appeared to be dehydrated, the ministry reports. The animals are currently in shelters and are being treated by vets.
Lots of money
“Cases like this are common because animals in India are worth a lot of money,” Sathon Konggoen, head of the airport’s wildlife inspection agency, told AFP news agency.
The animals, believed to have been bred in Thailand, are said to be worth about 200,000 baht (5,300 euros), according to the official.
The women are currently in jail and charged with violating the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act.
Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation
Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation