Teen Arrested In Kota Bharu Wildlife Raid As Authorities Seize RM48,500 Worth Of Protected Animals

KUALA LUMPUR, June, 2026 – Authorities have arrested an 18-year-old man after a raid in Kampung Bunohan, Tumpat, Kelantan, led to the seizure of several protected wildlife species and cages worth a total of RM48,500.

The operation was carried out by the General Operations Force Southeast Brigade together with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, also known as Perhilitan. According to GOF Southeast Brigade Commander SAC Ahmad Radzi Hussain, the raid took place at about 3.15pm on Sunday.

Among the animals seized was a red eagle estimated to be worth RM20,000. The discovery became one of the main highlights of the operation, as the bird was found together with several other protected animals kept at the premises.

During the inspection, enforcement officers also found four ruak-ruak birds, also known as White-breasted Waterhens, one short-eared owl, two musang pandan, and five cages. The animals and equipment were confiscated as part of the investigation into suspected illegal possession of protected wildlife.

Authorities said the suspect failed to produce any valid licence or permit allowing him to keep the protected animals. He was then detained for further action.

Initial investigations found that the teenager claimed the wildlife belonged to his father, who was said to be in Gua Musang at the time. The suspect reportedly told authorities that he was only responsible for looking after the animals.

Following the raid, the suspect and all seized items were handed over to Kelantan Perhilitan for further investigation. The case is being investigated under Section 60 of the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010, also known as Act 716.

The case highlights continuing enforcement efforts against illegal wildlife possession in Malaysia. Protected wildlife species cannot be kept, sold, transferred, or stored without valid approval from the relevant authorities.

Wildlife enforcement operations are important because illegal possession of protected animals can threaten biodiversity, disrupt natural ecosystems, and encourage illegal wildlife trade. Birds of prey, owls, waterhens, and small mammals are among species that may be targeted for private keeping or illegal trading.

The seizure in Tumpat also shows how enforcement agencies are continuing to monitor residential areas and private premises suspected of being used to keep protected animals without permits. Cooperation between GOF and Perhilitan remains crucial in detecting wildlife-related offences and preventing further illegal activity.

Authorities are expected to continue investigations to determine how the animals were obtained, whether the suspect acted alone, and whether other individuals were involved in the case.

The seized animals are now under the responsibility of Kelantan Perhilitan while the investigation continues. The case serves as a reminder that keeping protected wildlife without proper documentation is a serious offence under Malaysian law.