Plot to smuggle live tortoises foiled

A plot to smuggle eight live tortoises into the UK in a lunchbox was foiled by Border Agency officials at a postal hub.

The young Indian Star Tortoises had travelled almost 6,000 miles by air freight from Thailand when they were discovered at Coventry International Postal Hub on Tuesday.

The UK Border Agency said the creatures, which are a rare breed protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, are worth at least £270 each.

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They were discovered in a lunchbox which was within a parcel containing a greeting card and a scarf.

A UK Border Agency spokesman said: “The intended recipient of the tortoises was arrested in Manchester by officers from the UK Border Agency and inquiries are currently ongoing.”

UK Border Agency assistant director central region Carolyn Stott added: “The illicit trade in endangered animals is a serious contributory factor to the threat of extinction faced by many endangered species.

“This seizure demonstrates the agency takes its role in enforcing international agreements and prohibitions designed to protect the natural environment very seriously.

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“Anyone tempted to trade in protected creatures and plants should think again, and companies need to make sure they have the right paperwork before they import exotic animals into the UK.

“I also urge holidaymakers to ensure the souvenirs they buy do not contribute to this problem.”

The tortoises are in quarantine while arrangements are made for them to be rehoused.