A regular suitcase turned into one of the strangest customs discoveries at Dubai International Airport.

Dubai customs officials conducted a manual inspection after the scanning systems identified unusual content inside a suitcase belonging to an Asian passenger, leading them to a hidden basket; a basket that contained several rare and endangered bear cubs.

According to officials, the animals were dead upon discovery, and the veterinarian present confirmed that these bears are classified as internationally protected species.

The passenger stated during interrogation that he received the suitcase in exchange for a fee and was supposed to deliver it to another person upon arrival in the UAE. According to Dubai customs, this is one of the common methods of smuggling; where ordinary passengers are used as carriers of illegal shipments without being aware of the actual content.

Dubai officials say that the combination of advanced scanning technologies and the experience of the officers plays a crucial role in identifying such cases. These animals are subject to the international CITES convention laws; a global agreement to prevent illegal trade in endangered species.

Officials have also warned passengers not to transport any suitcase or package without precise knowledge of its contents, as the legal responsibility ultimately falls on the carrier.

This case has now been referred to the Dubai Police Environmental Crimes Unit for further investigation and legal action.

Source: Gulf Times