A pensioner was intercepted by customs officers at Gatwick Airport after attempting to smuggle over 100 live snakes concealed in his trousers, according to the UK Border Force.
The unnamed traveller was stopped as he arrived from Hong Kong, with officers discovering six canvas drawstring bags taped into his trouser pockets. Each bag contained live snakes of various sizes and colours, including milk snakes and corn snakes, many of which were non-native species.
Border Force officials seized 104 reptiles in total. The UK has strict biosecurity laws that prohibit the import of non-native species without a permit, and the man now faces potential legal action.
This incident highlights ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking, with the UK being a key transit hub for such illicit trade. The pensioner's punishment has not yet been disclosed.
