Australian customs are investigating two attempts this March to smuggle geckos and insects out of Sydney by post. The first package contained 4 Southern Leaf-tailed Geckos, the second contained one gecko of the same species plus 27 dead beetles plus several other insects and egg cases. In both cases, the wildlife was concealed inside hollowed-out books. The maximum penalty for offences under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 is ten years' jail and/or a AUD110,000 (USD102,000) fine.

Geckos booked by Customs
Australian Customs media release
11 April 2008

Customs is investigating two related attempts in Sydney to smuggle native geckos and other wildlife out of Australia.

After being alerted by Australia Post to a suspect express mail package bound for the Czech Republic on 14 March, Customs investigators responded and took possession of the package. Inside they found a hollowed-out book containing two adult and two baby southern leaf tail geckos.

Several days later, on 17 March, Australia Post again alerted Customs investigators about a similar package also destined for the Czech Republic. Inside this package was another hollowed-out book containing one adult southern leaf tail gecko as well as 27 dead beetles and several other insects and egg cases.

While investigations continue into the alleged smuggling attempts, the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change has found new homes for the five geckos among licensed reptile hobbyists in the greater Sydney area.

Customs National Manager Investigations, Richard Janeczko, said the two packages appeared to be from the same source.

"The concealments demonstrate the callous nature of wildlife smugglers who disregard the health and wellbeing of fauna. Collectors pay high prices for our native wildlife because it is unique but the reality is that many animals die before they reach their overseas destinations. Customs takes this sort of crime very seriously and will continue to pursue those who seek to breach Australia's laws at the border and profit from this cruel trade," Mr Janeczko said.

The maximum penalty for offences under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 is ten years' jail and/or a AUD110,000 (USD102,000) fine.

http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?c=10225

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