KLIA Officers Thwart Wildlife Smuggling Attempt, Rescue 6 Live Gibbons Stuffed in Luggage

A swift and coordinated response by the airport community at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 has successfully thwarted another wildlife smuggling attempt, rescuing six live gibbons before they could be illegally transported out of the country.

The incident was uncovered during a routine baggage screening process when members of the Aviation Security (AVSEC) team detected suspicious images on an X-ray scanner. Acting quickly, the officers conducted further checks and worked closely with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) and airline partners to identify and locate the passenger in question.

Intercepted before takeoff

Through seamless coordination and rapid action, the team intercepted the smuggling attempt before the aircraft departed, ensuring the safe rescue of the six gibbons.

In a Facebook statement last night (8 June), KLIA Terminal 1 emphasised that these endangered primates belong in their natural habitats, not confined to the darkness and distress of a suitcase. Often taken from the wild to feed the illegal exotic pet trade, gibbons are among the many vulnerable species threatened by wildlife trafficking.

The statement reads,

“Protecting wildlife is a shared responsibility. The successful operation highlights the critical role played by frontline airport personnel in combating wildlife crime.

“From the vigilance of security officers monitoring baggage scanners to the collaborative efforts of enforcement agencies and airline partners, the rescue demonstrates how a united airport community can make a meaningful impact in the global fight against illegal wildlife trafficking.”

Members of the public can contribute by refusing to support the exotic pet trade, remaining vigilant while travelling, and reporting any suspicious wildlife-related activities to airport security personnel or PERHILITAN.

In March this year, a 39-year-old Malaysian woman acting as a courier was also arrested at KLIA Terminal 1 for the same offence. She attempted to smuggle four siamang gibbons valued at RM120,000 inside her luggage on a flight bound for Tiruchirappalli, India.

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Also read: “I’ve been sleeping on the floor” – Indian Man Stranded at KLIA for 2 Weeks as India & New Zealand Both Deny Him Entry