Mexican authorities uncover $7.3 million wildlife trafficking ring in largest turtle bust since 2020

Mexican law enforcement has dealt a major blow to international wildlife trafficking networks, seizing over 2,300 live turtles and millions of dollars worth of illegal animal products destined for markets in the United States and East Asia. The 10-month undercover operation culminated in late September raids across five locations in Jalisco and Baja California states, revealing the disturbing scale of Mexico’s role as a hub for endangered species smuggling.

The massive haul included not only the turtles—many crammed into overcrowded bins—but also 3,459 pounds of sea cucumbers, 2,619 pounds of shark fins, and 86 pounds of totoaba swim bladders. These products, highly prized as delicacies in East Asian cuisine, carried a street value of approximately $7.3 million. Three individuals were arrested and charged with operating an organized trafficking network through a Guadalajara-based company.

This bust represents the largest turtle seizure since 2020, when authorities discovered 15,000 turtles in Mexico City bound for China. The investigation began after thieves stole 55 critically endangered Vallarta mud turtles from a university research facility in Puerto Vallarta in January. What sets this operation apart, according to conservation experts, is the sophisticated intelligence-gathering and inter-agency collaboration that made it possible—marking a new chapter in Mexico’s fight against wildlife crime.

The seizure underscores the urgent need for stronger international cooperation to combat the lucrative illegal wildlife trade, which threatens countless species with extinction while generating billions in profits for criminal organizations worldwide.