Man charged after 10 live birds found hidden in underwear on Havana-Miami arrival

Right · 2U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Miami International Airport spotted what court documents described as an "unexplained bulge" around a passenger's waist and pelvic area after he arrived on a flight from Havana, Cuba, according to a federal complaint obtained by Fox News Digital. 1 2 Right · 2The passenger, Alberto Hernandez Castillo, is a native of Cuba and a legal permanent resident of the United States; he arrived in Miami on Oct. 4 and was selected for secondary inspection. 1 2 Right · 2According to court documents, he had signed a customs declaration saying he was not bringing animals or wildlife into the country, and a search of his carry-on bag and fanny pack found no contraband. 1 2

Right · 1During routine questioning, officers noticed the bulge and said Castillo "appeared nervous," which led to a pat-down. 1 Right · 2The complaint alleges the search revealed six clear cylindrical containers, wrapped in tape and tucked inside black pockets sewn into his underwear, holding 10 live birds that were preliminarily identified as eight yellow-faced grassquits and two blue grosbeaks. 1 2 Right · 2Asked about the birds, Castillo allegedly said they were for his "personal use" and then invoked his right to remain silent, according to the complaint. 1 2

Right · 2Investigators said a records check found no indication he had filed the documentation required to legally import wildlife, and he was charged with smuggling goods into the United States. 1 2 Right · 2Court records recommend a $25,000 personal surety bond, and he is due back in court Oct. 26; Fox News Digital said it had asked the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida for further details. The allegations come from the complaint and have not been tested in court. 1 2