Malaysian airport authorities rescued 400 rare tortoises, tomato frogs and chameleons from Madagascar taped up and stuffed inside socks and other clothing in two bags.

Wildlife official Loo Kean Seong said the animals, mostly radiated tortoises, were saved at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

He said two women from Madagascar allegedly carrying the hand luggage were arrested and could be charged with importing wildlife without a permit. The offence carries a maximum prison term of seven years.

This is the second recent seizure of smuggled Madagascar wildlife. Last month, airport officials rescued 300 tortoises moving in a bag.

Mr Loo said his department hopes to send all the animals back to the African country.

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