World · India Bureau
Man Arrested After Smuggling 92 Live Reptiles Through German Airport
A passenger was detained at a German airport following a positive cocaine test, but customs officials made an unexpected discovery when they searched his luggage. Inspectors found 37 venomous snakes and 55 lizards concealed in his suitcase.
LSN India ·
Authorities at a German airport uncovered an unusual smuggling operation when routine screening of a passenger's belongings revealed a large collection of live reptiles. The discovery came after the traveller tested positive for cocaine during preliminary checks, prompting a thorough baggage inspection by customs officials.
Upon opening the suspect's suitcase, officials found 37 live venomous snakes alongside 55 lizards packed inside the luggage. Despite the positive drug test result, no narcotics were recovered from the passenger's possessions, shifting the investigation's focus to the illegal wildlife trafficking attempt.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about illegal wildlife smuggling through European transportation hubs. Venomous reptiles pose significant risks both during transportation and if released into new environments, where they could establish invasive populations.
The passenger was taken into custody pending further investigation. Authorities did not immediately clarify the intended destination of the reptiles or provide additional details about the circumstances surrounding the smuggling attempt.