U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents made a surprising discovery last week while inspecting international luggage at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
According to a news release, the CBP agriculture specialists were taking x-rays of bags that had been separated from their owners and were attempting to reenter the U.S. when they discovered a young skull of a dolphin.
According to the CBP, certain wildlife, including marine mammals and products made from them are subject to export and import restrictions, prohibitions and certificates as well as other requirements.
Robert Larkin, Area Port Director, stated that it is against the law to possess wildlife items, particularly those of protected species. “We take wildlife smuggling very seriously and work closely together with our federal partners at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service protects wildlife and their habitats.
The U.S. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has taken the skull to further investigate.
CBP encourages travelers to be aware of regulations before trying to smuggle wildlife into the U.S. to avoid arrest, seizures, or penalties.
At this point, it is unknown who the owner is of the bag and whether they will be facing any charges.
