Home / Crime and Justice / Exotic Zoo Found in Suburban Home: Crocodile, Cobra Seized
Exotic Zoo Found in Suburban Home: Crocodile, Cobra Seized
5 Feb
Summary
- Man arrested for allegedly farming exotic animals, drugs, and weapons.
- Police discovered a crocodile, 38 snakes, 19 lizards, and other animals.
- A hydroponic cannabis farm and illegal firearms were also seized by police.
Police in New South Wales have arrested a 39-year-old man in connection with an alleged exotic animal farm, drug operation, and illegal weapons cache. During a search of a property in Collombatti, officers discovered dozens of native and exotic reptiles, including a 1.3-meter saltwater crocodile, 38 snakes (one a cobra), and 19 lizards.
In addition to the makeshift zoo, investigators uncovered a hydroponic cannabis farm. Officers seized 52 plants and 11 kilograms of cannabis leaf, valued at $85,000. Several firearms were also found, including a rifle hidden in the kitchen. The man faces multiple charges related to drug cultivation, supply, and firearm offenses.
Authorities believe the man was involved in the black market sale of exotic animals. The operation involved the NSW Crime Command's Raptor Squad, local council officers, RSPCA, licensed reptile handlers, and biodiversity regulators who assisted in relocating the animals to safer environments.
