Suitcase of 185 turtles discovered at Galapagos Islands airport | Abroad

This has been announced by the Ecuadorian Ministry of the Environment. The Galapagos Islands are located 1,000 kilometers from the Ecuadorian mainland and are known for their unique flora and fauna. The archipelago owes its name to the famous giant tortoises that live there.

Environment Minister Marcelo Mata spoke of “crimes against the wildlife and natural heritage of the Ecuadorians.” He said the case is under investigation and will be punished as provided by law. Wild animal smuggling is punishable by one to three years in prison in Ecuador.

According to Mata, the animals were stolen from the wild, not from breeding centers.

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