The countries are hailing it as the most significant effort made against illegal animal trafficking in their respective countries.
The animals were seized in May in the province of Chumphon in southern Thailand. A large number of dead animals were also found during the raid, which was described by the authorities as the largest of its kind. Six people were arrested and risk up to 15 years in prison.
Among the animals being sent home are ring-tailed lemurs, brown macaques, Madagascar spider tortoises, and radiated tortoises – all endangered species unique to Madagascar.
The animals will be taken care of by a special center when they arrive, according to Madagascar's Environment Minister Max Andonirina Fontaine.
Thailand is a common transit country for illegal animal trafficking. The smugglers' final destination is often the lucrative black markets in China, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
