U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) recently intercepted 37 live beetles hidden inside packages of Japanese snacks, potato chips, and chocolate. The contraband, valued at $1,480 USD, was discovered during a routine examination of a shipment from Japan.
Cheryl M. Davies, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles, stated that "they may look harmless but in reality, smuggled beetles pose a significant threat to our vital agriculture resources." She explained that beetles can become serious pests by consuming plants and laying eggs on tree bark.
The illegal trade of exotic insects is lucrative for collectors and enthusiasts who sell them online or through underground sources. Importing live insects into the U.S. requires a permit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS).
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.”
The seized beetles were handed over to USDA officials for determination of their final destination, which could include donation to local zoos or preservation for insect collections.
In 2023 alone, CBP agriculture specialists nationwide seized more than 3,287 prohibited plants and animal products daily while intercepting over 231 agricultural pests potentially harmful to U.S. resources.
CBP is America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting the nation’s borders through various means including innovation and collaboration.
