Rangers release one of the six green tree pythons seized during a vehicle intercept on Cape York on New Year’s Eve as an investigation into the alleged incident continues. Photo: Supplied.
Charges are yet to be laid against the individuals allegedly involved with the attempted poaching of eight snakes from Cape York on New Year’s Eve.
On 31 December 2024, the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) received information about snakes being taken from the Lockhart River area, leading to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers, along with police, undertaking a vehicle intercept around Coen.
Six green tree pythons and two brown snakes were allegedly discovered during a search of the vehicle, and were returned to their natural habitat by rangers several days later after receiving a clean bill of health.
The stunning pythons are believed to be worth up to $50,000 each on the black market if they can be exported to overseas buyers.
Last week, DETSI confirmed a QPWS investigation into the incident was continuing, meaning it could be months before it is known what charges, if any, the alleged poachers will face.
Cape York Weekly understands from several reliable sources one of the alleged offenders is known to police, and has previously been convicted on a raft of poaching and illegal animal trafficking charges in New South Wales.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed police had played no role in the incident to date other than assisting with the vehicle interception.
“As this is an ongoing Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service investigation, we are unable to comment,” the spokesperson said.
“The Queensland Police Service will support partner agencies if criminal charges are brought before the court.”
The stunning green tree python can fetch up to $50,000 on the international black market. Photo: Supplied.
Rest in peace Viv - a true gentleman. View