A lawmaker and an expert have called for stronger monitoring of wildlife trafficking in Hong Kong after police arrested a woman upon discovering a crocodile on the balcony of her flat and another 63 animals inside.
Kenis Yang, chief operating officer of the non-governmental organisation Hong Kong Society of Herpetology Foundation, said on Thursday that authorities should increase inspections and public education given reptile smuggling had grown worse over the past two years.
“I hope they try to increase patrols and raids. Relevant laws should be enforced more strictly,” Yang said.
On Wednesday afternoon, a 66-year-old man reported seeing a green reptile on the balcony of the flat.
It was confirmed to be a saltwater crocodile measuring 1.5 metres (4.9 feet). It was suspected to have suffered a leg injury.