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Komodo Dragons Rescued in Major Smuggling Bust
15 Apr
Summary
- Six suspects arrested for smuggling endangered Komodo dragons.
- Dragons were sourced from East Nusa Tenggara and destined for Thailand.
- Suspects profited significantly from selling the protected animals.
Indonesian authorities have apprehended six individuals implicated in a smuggling operation targeting endangered Komodo dragons. The arrests followed an investigation that began in February with the capture of two suspects in Surabaya, who were found with three live Komodo dragons.
Further inquiries led to the apprehension of four more individuals. These suspects are accused of acquiring the dragons from suppliers or hunters in East Nusa Tenggara, the native habitat of these large lizards. The reptiles were reportedly being sold to clients in Thailand, fetching a significantly higher price than their purchase cost.
Authorities estimate that this ring has trafficked at least 20 Komodo dragons since January of the previous year, accumulating approximately $33,000. The suspects face severe penalties, including up to five years in prison and substantial fines. Separately, two suspects were arrested for smuggling pangolin scales, another endangered species, from Riau to Surabaya.
