BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A man was arrested Monday for attempting to smuggle two howler monkeys into the United States, federal officials announced.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers arrested a 29-year old Mexican citizen at the Brownsville Matamoros International Bridge for transporting the monkeys inside his vehicle.
“Our frontline CBP officers’ diligence in the performance of their duties led them to the discovery of two live howler monkeys transported in a vehicle,” Michael B. Reyes, acting port director at the Brownsville Port of Entry said.
CBP officers and agriculture specialists intercepted both monkeys who were later turned over to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“CBP remains committed to preventing the exploitation of protected animals and the spread of animal diseases,” Reyes continued.
Officials say the two monkeys will be housed at the Gladys Porter Zoo.
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