Published : 27 Sep 2026, 08:28 PM
Updated : 27 Sep 2026, 08:28 PM
Law-enforcing agencies and the Wildlife Crime Control Unit (WCCU) have detained a man at Dhaka’s Shahjalal International Airport with native “Kori Kaitta” turtles.
Acting on a tip-off, the WCCU conducted a joint drive on Sunday alongside airport security manager, police, the Department of Livestock Services, an executive magistrate, and others to seize the turtles.
A statement from the Forest Department identified the detainee as Md Shahidul Islam, 57, a passenger bound for Malaysia on a Batik Air flight (OD-161). He hails from Tangail.
A subsequent search of his luggage led to the seizure of 1,163 live “Kori Kaitta” turtles.
Wildlife Inspector Asim Mallick told bdnews24.com, “The man was detained following a drive conducted on Saturday night.
“He could not provide much information during interrogation.”
He said he had only taken the responsibility of transporting the luggage in exchange for money, according to Mallick.
“We suspect a smuggling ring is operating behind this and are trying to track them down.”
The Forest Department said a case has been filed against the detained individual at the Shahjalal International Airport Police Station for violating the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act.
It also mentioned that the rescued turtles would be released into their natural habitat soon after receiving initial care.
