Wan Yee Ng, a 41-year-old woman from Hong Kong, entered a guilty plea in U.S. District Court in Burlington, Vermont for attempting to smuggle 29 protected turtles from the United States into Canada. Eastern box turtles are a protected species in several states, including Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Hampshire. Ng was arrested at an Airbnb in Canaan, Vermont on June 28, as she was loading up her inflatable kayak to travel to Canada. Two other individuals, including Ng’s suspected husband, were also involved in the attempted smuggling operation.
Authorities found 29 eastern box turtles inside a duffle bag, wrapped in socks, being carried by Ng. The turtles are known to be sold on the Chinese black market for $1,000 each. Ng’s cellphone revealed that she was attempting to smuggle the turtles into Canada with the intention of selling them for profit in Hong Kong. Ng pleaded guilty to unlawfully attempting to export and send the turtles out of the United States. She has been in custody since her arrest and will remain there until her sentencing on December 13. Ng faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police notified local authorities about the smuggling attempt, leading to Ng’s arrest as she prepared to cross Lake Wallace towards Canada. Ng’s case sheds light on the illegal wildlife trade and the demand for protected species in certain markets. Eastern box turtles are valued for their rarity and are often sought after by collectors and exotic pet owners. The smuggling of wildlife poses a threat to various species and their ecosystems, prompting stricter enforcement and penalties for offenders.
Ng’s guilty plea highlights the need for international cooperation to combat wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species. The illegal trade of wildlife not only harms the animals involved but also disrupts ecosystems and biodiversity. The sentencing of Ng will serve as a deterrent to others engaged in similar illegal activities and send a message that wildlife trafficking will not be tolerated. Authorities must continue to work together to identify and prosecute individuals involved in the smuggling of protected species, ensuring the preservation and conservation of wildlife for future generations.
Ng’s case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating wildlife trafficking and the importance of stringent laws and enforcement efforts to protect endangered species. The demand for rare and exotic wildlife presents a lucrative opportunity for smugglers, leading to the exploitation of vulnerable species for profit. By holding individuals like Ng accountable for their actions, authorities can send a strong message against illegal wildlife trade and promote conservation efforts worldwide. The sentencing of Ng on December 13 will mark a step towards justice for the 29 eastern box turtles and a warning to those involved in the illegal wildlife trade.
