Alberto Hernandez Castillo, a Cuban national with legal US permanent residency, was arrested at Miami International Airport on 4/10 on smuggling charges. He was released on 25,000 USD bail and is scheduled to appear in court on 26/10.

US customs intercepted Alberto after noticing a bulge in his groin area and observing his nervous expression.

According to the indictment, after officials took him to a security screening area, a search revealed Alberto was hiding six plastic containers, each wrapped in tape. He concealed these tubes, each containing a bird, in black bags sewn into his pants.

Among the birds were 8 yellow-faced finches and 2 blue grosbeaks, totaling 10 birds, all alive. Authorities stated that cross-border animal smugglers favor these species.

Court documents show that upon entry, Alberto checked "no" to all questions regarding items, seeds, animals, plants, and weapons he was carrying.

He stated he had visited family in Cuba and brought the 10 birds to the US for personal enjoyment, not for resale.

Castillo (left) at the time of his arrest and the 10 birds after their "rescue". *Photo: People*

By Hai Thu (According to The People)