Caught at Suvarnabhumi Checkpoint: Smuggling Rhino Horns Hidden in Foam Box

An international wildlife trafficking operation was intercepted at Suvarnabhumi Airport on February 9th when officials discovered a Vietnamese passenger smuggling 11.75 kg of rhino horns hidden in a foam box. The 36-year-old traveler was en route from Lubumbashi, Congo, with a transit through Ethiopia and Thailand, ultimately heading to Vientiane, Laos. Authorities found 6 rhino horn pieces, 3 pieces of animal skin used for camouflage, and an iPhone 14 Pro Max used in the illegal operation. The suspect was charged under three laws related to wildlife protection, customs, and animal disease control, and was handed over to airport police for further legal proceedings.