Australian authorities have thwarted an illicit smuggling ring attempting to export native lizards and reptiles, estimating the total value at more than A$1.2 million ($800,000) to Hong Kong.
According cnn, The operation, launched in September 2023, led to the arrest of three men aged 54, 59 and 31, along with a 41-year-old woman in Sydney, according to a statement from the New South Wales Police.
During the investigation, nine packages containing 59 live lizards destined for Hong Kong were intercepted. Police allege the criminal group captured these native Australian reptiles, keeping them in poor conditions and tying them up in small containers to export them for profit.
The four suspects are scheduled to appear in court in January, facing charges related to the illegal export of wildlife. During the investigation, a total of 257 lizards and three snakes were discovered, both in packages and at addresses associated with the group.
The reptiles were later examined by a veterinarian and returned to the wild after being taken to various zoos and nature parks.
Police estimate the value of each lizard at about A$5,000 ($3,350), bringing the cumulative total to approximately A$1.285 million ($860,000).
Authorities did not reveal the motive behind the alleged smuggling, but Hong Kong has been known as a hotspot for the illegal wildlife trade, given its bustling port and status as a gateway to mainland China.
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Hong Kong notes the growing popularity of exotic pets in the region, with rare species such as turtles, snakes, lizards, parrots, sugar gliders, hedgehogs and scorpions traded as pets, highlighting the challenges associated with wildlife conservation against such illegal activities.
