Part of an operation called “Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah”, the arrest yesterday at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport also saw the seizure of 30 juvenile Tomistoma crocodiles and 14 Indian eyed turtles.

In a statement, internal security and public order department acting director Yusoff Mamat said the crocodiles were valued at RM60,000 each, while the turtles were priced at RM1,350 each, totalling an estimated value of over RM1.8 million.

“These cases are rare, and the species involved are highly valuable on the black market,” he said.

The suspect is believed to be part of an international syndicate that uses Malaysia as a transit point to transport animals to other countries.

The police reiterated its commitment to uncovering smuggling activities, emphasising that Malaysia should not be a hub for such illegal operations.

“The police are committed to enforcing the law and conducting operations to curb smuggling activities, ensuring the country does not become a prime target for smuggling,” said Yusoff.

He also encouraged the public to report any activity related to wildlife smuggling to help the authorities in their efforts.

The suspect will be investigated under Sections 68(1) and 69(1) of the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 for smuggling protected species.