Thai authorities have arrested a 19-year-old woman at Suvarnabhumi International Airport for allegedly attempting to smuggle 30 protected tortoises out of the country.

Officials said the suspect, a Taiwanese national, was intercepted while preparing to board a flight to Taipei after her suspicious movements drew attention.

A search revealed 30 Indian star tortoise, 29 alive and one dead, taped to her body using adhesive and concealed in cloth bags.

Authorities estimate the animals’ black-market value at about $9,000. The species is protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species due to its vulnerability and high demand in the exotic pet trade.

The suspect has been charged with illegal wildlife transport and evading customs controls. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether she is part of a larger trafficking network.

Thailand remains a major transit hub for wildlife smuggling, with endangered species often trafficked across Asia.

The rescued tortoises have been handed over to wildlife officials for care and will also serve as evidence in the case.