A recent incident at Futian Port in China, located on the border of Hong Kong and Shenzhen, has shed light on the issue of illegal wildlife smuggling. Chinese state media reported that a would-be smuggler was apprehended while attempting to transport 104 live snakes into China. These reptiles were intended for legal farming and consumption in the country.
However, Chinese law strictly prohibits the transportation of live animals across the border. According to a statement from China's customs authority, customs officers discovered six canvas bags sealed with tape hidden in the traveler's pants during an inspection. Upon opening the bags, they found multiple live snakes of various colors and species, including the Texas rat snake and the milk snake, both native to North America. These reptiles were referred to as 'alien species' in the official post.
China has long been a target for exotic animal smugglers, who often keep these animals as pets or use them in traditional medicine and cuisine. Snake soup, a Cantonese delicacy, is one such example of how these animals are utilized in Chinese cuisine.
Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, live animal markets, commonly known as 'wet markets,' continue to operate in various parts of China. These markets have faced criticism for their potential role in the spread of zoonotic diseases.
The identity of the would-be smuggler has not been disclosed, and the customs authority has not specified the punishment that will be imposed. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by illegal wildlife trafficking and the importance of enforcing regulations to protect endangered species and prevent the spread of diseases.
