Seven snakes seized at Bogorodica border crossing, including a venomous specimen

Customs officers at the Bogorodica border crossing seized seven young reptiles during an inspection of a vehicle driven by a Kosovo citizen, the Customs Administration reported.

The animals, which the authorities say were packed in boxes and scarves and hidden under a seat with the intent to be smuggled into the country, include protected species. The list of confiscated animals contains two pythons of the species "Carpet Spilota", one "Short tailed" python, one "Brandly Carpet" python, one "Chinese Ring rat", one from "Raticulated Super Dwarf" and a venomous snake listed as "Baron sneake".

Reptiles to be handed over to competent institutions

The seized animals will be transferred to the competent institutions, and the Customs Administration has launched appropriate proceedings against the perpetrator.

In a written statement the Customs Administration emphasized: "We emphasize that protected species are strictly regulated with mandatory permits in accordance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, and any import without these permits is considered an unauthorized import," added the Customs Administration.

No further personal details about the driver were released, and authorities say controls at border crossings remain intensified to stop illegal wildlife trade.

Photo: press material from the event