http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=4232&c=6893
Customs stops alleged attempt to smuggle native lizards - Monday, 27th March 006
Customs has stopped an alleged attempt by an airline passenger to smuggle native lizards out of Australia last night.
A 22-year-old man is due to face Perth Magistrates Court later today charged with offences under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999.
Customs officers arrested the man, a Japanese national, as he attempted to depart Perth International Airport on a flight to Singapore.
Investigations began in August 2005 after two separate reports from members of the public to the 24-hour Customs Hotline which detailed suspicious activity they had witnessed on Scarborough Beach. Customs then commenced inquiries into the information provided.
This investigation led Customs officers to question a passenger on his arrival at Perth International Airport on 21 March 2006.
When the passenger checked in at Perth for his Singapore-bound flight last night, his hold luggage was x-rayed and this allegedly revealed the presence of a number of reptiles.
During a subsequent luggage search, Customs officers allegedly found six live, native shingleback lizards inside a plastic container.
The reptiles are being held in Perth by the WA Department of Conservation and Land Management while their immediate future is determined.
Customs WA Regional Director Paul O'Connor said the agency took wildlife crime very seriously and urged anyone with information to continue to contact the Customs Hotline on 1 800 06 1800 if they noticed any unusual or suspicious activity.
"It is a serious offence to take animals from the wild without authority. The maximum penalty for offences under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act is ten years' imprisonment and/or a fine of $110,000."