During a surveillance operation against illegal wildlife trafficking, the Attorney General’s Office in Chiapas, through investigative police, detected and seized a shipment of 3,427 Trachemys venusta freshwater turtle hatchlings, transported in cardboard boxes in overcrowded conditions and subject to a lack of dignified and respectful treatment.
At a checkpoint at kilometer 46 of the San Cristóbal – Chiapa de Corzo highway, security officers detected José “N” in flagrante delicto, illegally transporting more than 3,000 turtles, commonly known as hicotea turtles.
The specimens were being transported without documentation proving their legal origin, which constitutes a violation of current environmental regulations.
Therefore, authorities placed José “N” at the disposal of the Public Prosecutor’s Office and informed Profepa (National Prosecutor’s Office) to secure the specimens. They were taken to a registered Environmental Management Unit (UMA), where they are currently receiving medical care and evaluation.
Profepa initiated the corresponding administrative procedure and is working with the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) to continue and strengthen the investigation file.
It will also monitor the seized specimens, prioritizing their return to the natural environment, if conditions permit.
Illegal trafficking of species represents a serious threat to national biodiversity. Profepa urges citizens to report illegal wildlife activities and reiterates its commitment to the conservation of Mexico’s natural heritage.
Source: gob
