A Malaysian national, Dasmond Kong Sing Chye, was arrested at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on May 24 while attempting to smuggle hundreds of live wild animals. The arrest is part of a broader effort by Thai authorities, led by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), to combat international wildlife trafficking. Chye was intercepted near boarding gate F3 as he prepared to board a flight to Kolkata, India.
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During the operation, officers discovered a variety of animals, including two helmeted hornbills, two Patagonian maras, 62 iguanas, five monitor lizards, 100 blue-tongued skinks, and 80 turtles, hidden in his luggage. Charged under several acts, including the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act, Chye was taken to Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station for further legal action. The confiscated animals are now being cared for by the Wildlife Conservation Office.
This incident comes after a similar case on April 29, when a Taiwanese woman was caught smuggling Indian star tortoises at the same airport. Additionally, three Thai nationals were arrested in Ecuador last week for attempting to smuggle Galápagos marine iguanas. Such cases highlight the ongoing challenges in tackling wildlife trafficking networks that leverage Thailand as a transit point.
Efforts are underway to trace additional suspects involved in the smuggling network connected to Chye. Thai authorities remain vigilant and continue to enhance inspections to prevent further wildlife trafficking incidents.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 22 May 2026