Baby monkeys rescued from smuggling attempt at Turkish border

Customs officers at the Habur Border Gate stopped an attempt to smuggle two baby macaque monkeys into Türkiye. They found the monkeys hidden in a special compartment of a vehicle trying to enter the country on Thursday.

Authorities contacted the Golpinar Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center under the 3rd Regional Directorate of Nature Protection and National Parks.

The rescued monkeys were immediately taken to Sanliurfa for further care.

Turkish veterinarians provide immediate care for rescued baby monkeys

Mehmet Cezayiroglu, the Sanliurfa Branch Director of Nature Protection and National Parks said, “The monkeys, both two months old, were found by customs officers during a routine vehicle inspection at the Habur Border Gate. Their health could have been seriously affected, so they were quickly transported to the rehabilitation center.”

Veterinarians at the center conducted health checks and started treatment. “Our expert veterinarians are taking care of these animals. After their treatment, they will be sent to the Gaziantep Zoo,” Cezayiroglu said.

What have the baby monkeys been eating?

The baby monkeys are eating a diet of bananas, apples, and pears. Cezayiroglu stressed the need to protect wildlife from illegal trade. “Animals like these should not be taken from their natural habitat. It is crucial to stop such attempts to protect biodiversity.”

Officials fined the driver, identified as I.B., $1,650 (₺60,187) for attempting to smuggle the animals into the country. Authorities continue investigating wildlife smuggling cases and enforcing strict penalties against offenders.