CBP officers uncovered giant beetles concealed within Japanese snack packages. This bizarre smuggling attempt highlights the ongoing threats to American agriculture. What are the potential consequences for those caught smuggling live insects?
Uncovering the Beetle Smuggling Operation
The discovery of 37 live giant beetles at LAX occurred during a routine examination of a shipment from Japan in January. CBP officers found the insects, measuring 4 to 5 inches long, cleverly hidden inside packages of Japanese snacks.
The contraband shipment, valued at $1,480, was intercepted before it could reach its intended destination. This incident sheds light on the sophisticated methods employed by wildlife traffickers to bypass security measures.
At least 37 giant live beetles measuring 4 to 5 inches have been found concealed inside multiple packages of Japanese snacks, potato chips and chocolate at LAX, authorities said. https://t.co/gRusXQnZEi pic.twitter.com/5i4Y7VAcOm
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) February 7, 2025
Agricultural Threats and Regulatory Measures
CBP Director Cheryl M. Davies emphasized the potential dangers posed by these beetles. “Beetles can become a serious pest by eating plants, leaves, and roots and by laying eggs on tree bark which damages our forests,” she explained.
The importation of live insects into the United States is strictly regulated. It requires a USDA APHIS PPQ permit or a letter from the PPQ Plants, Pathogens, and Biocontrol unit, highlighting the government’s efforts to protect domestic agriculture and ecosystems.
At least 37 giant live beetles have been found concealed inside multiple packages of Japanese snacks, potato chips and chocolate at Los Angeles International Airport, authorities said. https://t.co/XGvRPdF46T pic.twitter.com/iBEFtpbEId
— ABC News (@ABC) February 6, 2025
Combating Exotic Wildlife Trafficking
The seized beetles are now in the custody of USDA officials, who will determine their fate. Options include donating them to local zoos or preserving them for scientific collections.
This incident is not isolated, as evidenced by a similar case in Thailand where endangered animals, including a red panda, were discovered hidden in luggage at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Such cases underscore the global nature of the exotic wildlife trade and the challenges faced by customs authorities worldwide.
Andrew H. Douglas, CBP LAX Port Director, praised the efforts of CBP agriculture specialists. “CBP agriculture specialists combine their scientific knowledge of harmful pests and plant diseases with their expertise in detecting and intercepting these threats before they enter our country. We are very proud of their contributions to our national security mission,” he stated.
