Smugglers arrested with 146 endangered birds and animals

The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) has foiled an attempt to smuggle 146 endangered birds and animals into the UAE.

Authorities say a group of GCC nationals were arrested trying to smuggle the protected species' across the border near Sharjah.

"In cooperation with the Sharjah Police General Directorate, the EPAA’s teams were able to foil the attempted smuggling of 146 animals and birds. This shows the extent of care and commitment observed by the teams, while working to preserve and protect endangered species and provide them with the best living conditions," said EPAA Chairperson, Hana Saif Al Suwaidi.

The EPAA’s Desert Park facility is the first of its kind in the GCC and was designed to shelter predators and dangerous animals, in accordance with international standards.

As many as 379 prohibited, predatory and dangerous animals were rescued by the EPAA last year.