Customs seizes consignment of 23 exotic animals at Dhaka airport

Customs authorities at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) have seized a consignment of exotic animals illegally brought into the country, intensifying concerns among environmentalists and officials about the potential threats posed by invasive alien species to Bangladesh's native ecosystems and the nation's compliance with international wildlife trade regulations.

The seizure occurred today (29 May), when Md Abu Sayed Sultan, a resident of Bogura, arrived in Dhaka from China's Guangzhou, carrying 23 exotic animals without the required clearance.

The animals included eight bearded dragons, one hognose snake, two corn snakes, one bandy-bandy snake, two Pac-Man frogs, three albino red-ear slider turtles, and six alligator snapping turtles.

Airport customs flagged the consignment and handed it over to the Wildlife Crime Control Unit of the Forest Department following the seizure. Officials confirmed that the animals were contraband under existing laws, and the traveller had not obtained the necessary legal documents or prior permissions.

Particular concern has been raised over the presence of alligator snapping turtles and Pac-Man frogs. The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii), native to North America, is a large, aggressive predator capable of preying on a wide variety of aquatic organisms. Its introduction into Bangladeshi wetlands could severely impact native species and disrupt ecological balance.

Some of the seized exoctic animals, which were illegally brought into the country, on 29 May 2025. Photo: Courtesy

Furthermore, this species is globally Endangered and listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 2005, indicating that international trade in this species requires monitoring and regulation.

Similarly, the Pac-Man frog (Ceratophrys ornata), known for its voracious appetite and adaptability, could outcompete local amphibians and contribute to the spread of amphibian diseases. 

Wildlife authorities have warned that the illegal trade and movement of such species not only breach national and international wildlife protection laws but also pose long-term threats to biodiversity. Once released or escaped into the wild, these animals can establish breeding populations, compete with native species, and undermine conservation efforts.

Currently, authorities are assessing the health and biosecurity risks of the animals and determining the appropriate course of action.

This incident comes in the wake of Bangladesh's recent suspension from CITES due to the country's failure to control illegal bird trade. Recently, CITES imposed a suspension on Bangladesh, citing concerns over compliance and enforcement related to the trade of CITES-listed birds.

This suspension underscores the need for stricter enforcement of import regulations and enhanced coordination between customs and environmental agencies to prevent future incidents.

Wildlife experts and officials have reiterated the importance of adhering to international conventions and strengthening domestic measures to combat illegal wildlife trade and protect native biodiversity.