Sham Shui Po crocodile leads to one arrest

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation officials have arrested a 35-year-old woman on suspicion of illegally possessing endangered species. Authorities found 63 reptiles, amphibians and arthropods in the woman's flat. Twenty nine were endangered reptiles.

This reptile is said to be a young, one-metre saltwater crocodile, discovered in a building on Tai Po Road, Sham Shui Po. At around 1pm on Wednesday, police phoned the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or SPCA, about residents finding an injured crocodile. SPCA deployed several inspectors to the scene and captured the reptile with rope and net.

At night, the police investigated the affected unit and found 63 reptiles, amphibians and arthropods, including rock iguanas, Aldabra giant tortoises and a Burmese python -- all categorised as endangered species.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation officials arrested the 35-year-old homeowner, who claimed the animals were used for education purposes, on suspicion of illegally possessing endangered species and seized the reptiles. Authorities are investigating if anyone has been breeding the reptiles as pets or operating a breeding facility.

Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, convicted individuals can face a maximum fine of 10 million dollars and a jail-sentence of 10 years.