Man arrested for importing owls, rabbits

A man has been arrested for importing owls and rabbits to the Maldives.

Maldives Customs said that a Maldivian who arrived from Bangkok was caught with 30 birds, 26 bird eggs and three rabbits, on 9 May.

Chief Customs Officer Aminath Liusha said that the birds are considered dangerous animals, and were packed in special boxes.

Bringing in birds and bird eggs without authorisation from Ministry of Fisheries, is prohibited.

Customs said that the importer was aware that it is illegal to bring in these items to the Maldives, and people choose to bring them in anyway to be sold at high prices.