Sydney man charged over suspected illegal animal exports
Two dead crocodiles, a python and a turtle are among a number of exotic reptiles seized from a home in Sydney's west linked to a suspected illegal animal export business.
A 25-year-old man has been charged with 169 animal abuse and trafficking offences after police raided a property in Lethbridge Park on Thursday.
During the search, officers found 12 shingleback lizards, one Stimson's python, three young monitor lizards and a South American mata mata turtle.
Mobile phones and other electronic devices were also taken from the property for forensic examination.
Police allege the man, who was unlicensed to keep the animals, captured the reptiles before they were sold overseas for at least $38,000.
The man was also charged with the seizure of 147 reptiles in 2017 including a death adder snake, 58 gecko lizards and 21 dragon lizards.
He was granted bail under strict conditions.
He will appear in Mount Druitt Local Court on June 5.