South Korean Man Arrested for Wildlife Smuggling

A 28-year-old South Korean man was arrested at Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport for attempting to smuggle 320 tarantulas, 110 centipedes, and nine bullet ants hidden under his clothing. The unusual bulge in his stomach alerted security, leading to the discovery of the live creatures sealed in plastic bags. Wildlife experts have warned that such illegal trafficking poses significant risks to endangered species and biodiversity, as many of these insects are critically endangered and highly sought after for the exotic pet trade. In 2021, a UN report highlighted that wildlife trafficking affects over 4,000 species globally and generates millions of dollars. Following the arrest, the animals were handed over to conservation authorities for care and potential rehabilitation into their natural habitats. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in combating wildlife trafficking, particularly in biodiverse regions like Peru.