In Japan, three men were arrested after attempting to smuggle large quantities of hermit crabs out of the country, raising questions about their intentions. The crabs are considered a national treasure on Amami Island, and their illegal capture adds to ongoing concerns about wildlife trafficking.
Three Arrested in Japan for Trying to Smuggle Protected Hermit Crabs
Three Arrested in Japan for Trying to Smuggle Protected Hermit Crabs
A bizarre smuggling attempt on Amami Island leads to the arrest of three Chinese nationals accused of trafficking thousands of hermit crabs, a protected species.
Three men have been detained in Japan as part of an unusual case involving the attempted smuggling of thousands of hermit crabs. Identified as Chinese nationals and aged between 24 and 27, the suspects were arrested on Amami, a southern island renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the protected hermit crabs.
Authorities became aware of the suspicious circumstances when hotel staff reported observing unusual "rustling noises" coming from the suitcases the men had asked them to store. Upon investigation, police found a staggering haul of approximately 95 kilograms of hermit crabs in the first set of luggage, while a third suspect was discovered with an additional 65 kilograms hidden in separate bags.
A police spokesperson stated, "We are currently investigating to ascertain whether they intended to sell the crabs, keep them as pets, or consume them." The hermit crabs are regarded as "a national treasure" due to their ecological role on Amami Island, where they thrive naturally on the region’s beaches.
The potential street value of these hermit crabs can reach up to ¥20,000 (£103), sparking concerns over illegal wildlife trade and the risks posed to the local ecosystem from such smuggling attempts. The investigation remains ongoing as police seek to unravel the motivations behind this peculiar case.
