Malaysian authorities have busted a criminal group dubbed the "Ninja Turtle Gang" and rescued hundreds of turtles destined for sale in Southeast Asia, where they are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim, Director General of the Wildlife and National Parks Service today announced that 400 turtles, valued at 3,8 million Malaysian ringgit (€750.000) destined for the lucrative exotic animal trade, were seized on Saturday.
"It is the biggest seizure in the last ten years," he told AFP.
He said the turtles were likely smuggled in the suitcases of plane passengers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal and were on their way to Thailand and Indonesia.
"Malaysia's strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it a hub for exotic species smuggling," added the director.
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