A Thai tourist illegally brings animals to Taiwan by plane, faces a punishment of up to NT$1 million

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency's Taoyuan Branch noted that there had been reports of a possible rat on a recent international flight from Bangkok to Taoyuan, which had terrified the passengers.

Investigations revealed that a Thai visitor had brought 33 animals into the country illegally, including otters, marmots, and star tortoises. Marmots, otters, and other creatures must be declared for quarantine since they are prone to it. As a result, the passenger faces a punishment of up to NT$1 million for breaking the "Statute for Prevention and Control of Infectious Animal Diseases".

The airline stated that passengers on board noticed a suspected rat infestation and notified the crew. Subsequently, animals such as star tortoises, marmots, and otters were found in large bags without passenger luggage tags.

A Thai tourist illegally brings animals to Taiwan by plane, faces a punishment of up to NT$1 million,Photo reproduced from Taipei Zoo

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The animal was given to the Ministry of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency's Taoyuan Branch for processing after the airline promptly informed the Aviation Police Security Police Brigade.

A Thai tourist illegally brings animals to Taiwan by plane, faces a punishment of up to NT$1 million,Photo reproduced from Farglory Ocean Park