24/02/2006

Crocodiles recovered in Newry

The USPCA has recovered ten crocodiles and a variety of other reptiles from the boot of a car.

Yesterday afternoon, a car was intercepted during a joint operation between the animal welfare charity and police in the County Down City of Newry.

It is understood that the animals were destined for sale in Northern Ireland.

In a separate operation in Omagh, County Tyrone, more dangerous reptiles were recovered from a house during an investigation into the illegal trading of wild animals.

A spokesperson for the USPCA today revealed that a diminishing demand for big cats was being replaced by a trend for exotic reptiles.

The charity has called for a new legislation to be put into force to prevent illegal trading by unlicensed dealers.

(EF/SP)

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