Australian police have busted a large-scale smuggling ring that specialized in the illegal wildlife trade. A multi-million dollar business – at the expense of living beings…
Authorities have been targeting the illegal activities since late December and since then a total of 257 animals worth a total of more than 1.2 million Australian dollars (740,000 euros) have been seized in various raids.
Animals intended for sale in Asia
The reptiles were intended for sale in Hong Kong. These are specimens of so-called endemic species, i.e. species that only occur in a specific, narrowly defined area.
Four suspects between the ages of 31 and 59 have been arrested, including a woman. They are accused of, among other things, illegally exporting native reptiles and participating in a criminal organization, said New South Wales police, which had set up its own ‘Raptor Squad’ to take action against such activities.
“Cold-blooded and cruel”
The reptiles were likely intended for collectors in Hong Kong and for use in traditional medicine, broadcaster 9News quoted a police spokesperson as saying. It was initially not known exactly which species it was.
It was a “cold-blooded and cruel smuggling attempt”: the animals were kept in very poor conditions and packed in small containers. Some were already dead. The surviving animals will be examined by veterinarians before being released back into the wild.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
