Chinese customs officers at Futian Port made a bizarre discovery when they apprehended a woman attempting to smuggle five live snakes hidden in her bra.
Suspicion was aroused by the unusual shape of her chest, and upon closer inspection, they found the snakes concealed in stockings beneath her top.
The apprehension occurred as the woman tried to make her way into Shenzhen, a major sub-provincial city and popular crossing point into Hong Kong, via boat.
The discovery, as reported by China Customs on their official WeChat account on July 8th, has since garnered attention.
Upon identification, it was revealed the snakes were corn snakes – non-venomous creatures native to the United States. While these reptiles are in demand in the online marketplace, their import into China is strictly prohibited.
China has strict regulations in place to avoid the uncontrolled introduction of non-native species, due to the potential ecological disruption and the risk of imported animals carrying diseases or bacteria that could pose a threat to the local population.
Nevertheless, corn snakes remain highly sought after for their docile nature and vibrant colors, making them attractive to exotic pet enthusiasts.
Unauthorized Trading Concerns Arise Following Seizure of Smuggled Snakes in Shenzhen
According to a 2021 report by Pethadoop, reptile collectors comprise 5.8% of China’s numerous pet owners. The country’s customs regulations stipulate that any animals brought in from overseas must be declared upon entry and subsequently quarantined.
Woman caught trying to smuggle five live snakes stuffed in bra at Chinese port ???????? pic.twitter.com/8ac8oVB5YM
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The presence of these snakes in Shenzhen could have led to unauthorized trading, due to the city’s Special Economic Zone status, bypassing the Chinese central government’s regulations.
Despite these strict rules, several non-native species have managed to establish a presence in China, including the water hyacinth, red fire ant, and apple snail.
The smuggled snakes have now been safely handed over to zoo officials for their care and safekeeping.