TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced Friday (March 15) it is monitoring the case of three Taiwanese nationals accused of smuggling rare bird eggs through Panama.
The individuals were detained on March 12 at Tocumen International Airport Panama while carrying 240 eggs of birds listed as protected species, according to foreign media reports.
The three Taiwanese nationals were flying from Nicaragua to Panama at the time.
MOFA was immediately notified, and the Taiwan Representative Office in Colombia, which handles affairs in Panama, was informed. The officials are following up with Panamanian police regarding the incident.
Panamanian authorities are now determining whether the individuals violated smuggling laws. They are also working to clarify the details of the case and decide subsequent action.
The case has entered the investigation stage within the Panamanian jurisdiction. Taiwan says it will ensure those involved receive fair treatment and a just trial while respecting Panama’s laws and investigative process.
MOFA issued a reminder to the public to obey the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
It also urges individuals to follow respective national laws to avoid the illegal trade of protected animals and plants.