Airport Inspectors Find Live Alligator In Passenger’s Suitcase

This astonishing X-ray shows how an American traveller tried to smuggle a live albino alligator out of Germany on a flight to Singapore.

The metre-long reptile was discovered by stunned baggage inspectors at Munich International Airport, Bavaria, last month (September).

The rare white gator – which had been stuffed into a cramped suitcase – was curled up and almost completely wrapped in cling film with just a tiny hole so it could breathe through its nostrils.

A criminal case was opened against the 42-year-old traveller for violating animal welfare laws, and the alligator was seized and taken to a reptile sanctuary in Munich.

Customers reportedly pay up to EUR 75,000 (GBP 65,700) for white alligators in Asia, German media reported.

Picture shows the X-ray of the live albino alligator found inside a suitcase at Munich Airport, in Germany, on Sept. 25, 2022. The alligator was wrapped in cling film, in the bag of a 42-year-old businessman departing for Singapore. (Hauptzollamt Munchen/Newsflash)

In a statement obtained by Newsflash, Munich Main Customs Office said: “Customs officers confiscated a live albino alligator on 25th September, 2022 at Munich Airport.

“While checking luggage, security check employees discovered an unusual X-ray image. They immediately informed customs officers, who, when opening the suitcase, found a live white alligator wrapped in cling film. Together with a veterinarian, the customs officers freed the animal and took over first aid.

“Before departing for Singapore, the passenger was located by customs officials. The officials initiated proceedings against the 42-year-old businessman.

“The Munich Customs Investigation Office took over further investigations.

“The animal is currently in the sanctuary for reptiles and will continue to be cared for there.”


To find out more about the author, editor or agency that supplied this story – please click below.
Story By: William McGee, Sub-Editor:  Marija Stojkoska, Agency: Central European News

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