From Allafrica · · 1m 10s
Somaliland Detains Austrian for Lizard Smuggling
Somaliland arrests Austrian over spiny-tailed lizard smuggling attempt.
In brief
Somaliland arrests Austrian over spiny-tailed lizard smuggling attempt. Somaliland police detained an Austrian national in Berbera after allegedly trying to collect spiny-tailed lizards for the international exotic pet trade. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Somaliland Police Detain Austrian
Somaliland police and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change detained an Austrian national in Berbera after allegedly attempting to purchase spiny-tailed lizards locally known as caasho-badhi.
Austrian National Allegedly Collecting Lizards
The Ministry of Environment reported the man was apprehended in the Sahil region with containers and equipment linked to the case.
Lizards Targeted for International Trade
Spiny-tailed lizards, commonly known as Uromastyx, are reptiles with thick, spiked tails found in arid regions of Africa and the Middle East.
Wildlife Trade Concerns Raised
The case has raised concerns about Somaliland's wildlife being collected for the international exotic pet trade, where reptiles and other animals are sold abroad.
Government Warns Against Illegal Wildlife Activity
Somaliland authorities warned residents against illegally capturing, selling, or trafficking wildlife and urged reporting suspicious activities to the Environment Ministry or security.
The big picture
Somaliland police detained an Austrian national in Berbera after allegedly trying to collect spiny-tailed lizards for the international exotic pet trade.
