Bureau of Customs (BoC) officers at the Ninoy Aquino international Airport (NAIA) seized a live python concealed in a Bluetooth speaker intended for shipment to Malaysia.
NAIA Customs district collector Carmelita “Mimel ” Talusan said the snake shipment was intercepted by Customs agents at the airport on May 5, 2019.
The 20-inch reticulated python was seen during X-ray screening, prompting a Customs officer to inspect the shipment.
This kind of snake can grow to as long as 32 feet and can swallow a human being or a large animal.
The snake was turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper handling and care.
Talusan reminded the public that import, export and trade of wildlife animals without necessary permit is a violation of Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act in relation to R.A. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).
Violators may face imprisonment of one year and one day to two years and a fine of P2,000 to P200,000. (Ariel Fernandez)
