An attempt to smuggle wildlife overseas was foiled after the interception of a United Kingdom-bound parcel containing eight containers of live millipedes, the Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) reported Monday.

The shipment, seized on 19 November at a warehouse in the NAIA Complex, was misdeclared as consumer goods containing face masks, juice powder mix, wooden jewelry boxes, noodles, and photo frames. However, the parcel was flagged after suspicious shapes appeared in x-ray scans.

Upon inspection, live millipedes were found hidden among the declared items. According to BOC-NAIA, the specimens were turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for appropriate handling.

The incident violates Sections 1400 and 1401 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, which cover misdeclaration of goods and unlawful importation or exportation.

BOC-NAIA said it continues to monitor outbound parcels for attempts to ship regulated species out of the country.