Particle.news
Download on the App Store

German Border Police Seize 31 Greek Tortoises Found in Shoe Boxes at Füssen Tunnel

Veterinary officials ordered temporary care at a local reptile zoo pending checks on origin, permits, transport conditions.

Overview

  • Officers stopped a Belgian-registered car on the A7 at the Füssen border tunnel on November 9 and found 26 Greek tortoises and five albinos.
  • The animals were packed in shoe boxes with Italian labels during a period when such tortoises typically hibernate.
  • A veterinary expert reported improper marking and unprofessional transport, raising animal welfare concerns.
  • Entry paperwork showed irregularities, including surplus Czech certificates, and the documents are under verification.
  • The tortoises were moved to the Reptilienzoo Füssen as investigations continue, and the French driver was cited for driving without a license, with police saying the Belgian zoo he named does not exist.