03 individuals, including a woman, were arrested by Customs at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake for attempting to smuggle aquatic animals into Sri Lanka from Bangkok without valid permits.
The 03 suspects, including a female, are residents of Veyangoda and are reportedly involved in the ornamental fish trade.
Their attempt to bring in the animals to their country violates Sri Lanka’s Flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance.
Hidden in their baggage were a large number of aquatic species including red-eared sliders, albino red-eared sliders, redtail catfish, alligator gar, various types of goldfish, and pig-nosed turtles – species considered invasive and potentially harmful to Sri Lanka’s ecosystem.
A Customs Biodiversity, Cultural and National Heritage Protection (BCNP) Unit personnel stated that the red-eared slider is among the world’s most invasive turtle species, while the red-tailed catfish is known for its predatory nature and ability to consume fish much larger than itself.
Following further investigations, Customs plans to re-send the smuggled aquatic animals to Thailand.
