A Miami International Airport passenger returning from Cuba was arrested after US Customs and Border Protection officers found 10 live birds concealed in plastic tubes sewn into his underwear. Alberto Hernandez Castillo, 40, a Cuban national and permanent resident of the US, arrived from Havana on October 4 aboard World Atlantic Flight 503 and was selected for a secondary inspection.
Castillo declared that he was not bringing animals or wildlife into the US, according to a federal criminal complaint. Officers searching his luggage found no contraband, but then noticed an “unexplained bulge” around his waist and pelvic area. A subsequent pat-down allegedly uncovered six concealed tubes containing the birds.
During the secondary inspection, Castillo reportedly told officers that he had travelled to Cuba to visit family and was carrying a carry-on bag and a fanny pack. He signed a Customs Entry Declaration in which he answered “No” when asked whether he was bringing animals or wildlife into the country, according to the complaint. Officers searched his belongings but found nothing unusual.
Following his arrest, Castillo appeared in federal court in Miami and was released on a $25,000 personal surety bond. His arraignment is scheduled for October 26, 2026. Officers also reported that he appeared nervous.
During further questioning, however, they noticed what the complaint described as an “unexplained bulge” at the front of his waist and pelvis. After the birds were discovered, Castillo allegedly told officers that they were for his “personal use”, according to the criminal complaint. They then took him to a secure area for a pat-down. He then invoked his right to remain silent.
