Mexican authorities seized over 2,300 turtles and wildlife products in a major sting operation, highlighting rampant wildlife trafficking. This operation underscores the urgent need for improved law enforcement to protect endangered species.

Mexican authorities conducted a major sting operation in September, seizing over 2,300 live freshwater turtles and other illegal wildlife products. The operation led to the arrest of three men charged with wildlife crimes. Among the seized turtles were critically endangered species like the Vallarta mud turtle, which is highly sought after in the pet trade. Nearly half of the turtles died due to poor conditions during smuggling. The operation highlights the urgent need for better law enforcement and intelligence gathering to combat wildlife trafficking in Mexico, which is home to a rich diversity of turtle species. Conservationists stress that without significant changes in enforcement and penalties, wildlife trafficking will continue to threaten these species.