Detectives from the Criminal Proceeds Squad have charged two men in relation to an ongoing investigation into the alleged exportation of live reptiles.
The pair were arrested following a 12-month investigation in conjunction with the Office of the Conservation Regulator.
Warrants were executed at residential properties and large amounts of cash were seized in relation to the investigation, called Operation Sheffield.
A 33-year-old man from Clayton has been charged with;
• Knowingly deal and conceal proceeds of crime
• Recklessly and negligently deal with proceeds of crime;
• Import/export wildlife with a permit;
• Possess protected wildlife (x7);
• Dispose of protected wildlife (x7) and;
• Commit an act of cruelty upon an animal (x7)
A 23-year-old Narre Warren South man has also been charged with;
• Import/Export wildlife without a permit (x7);
• Possess protected wildlife (x7);
• Dispose of protected wildlife (x7) and;
• Commit an act of cruelty upon an animal (x7)
Chief Conservation Regulator, Kate Gavens said, The Conservation Regulator, with our partner agencies including Victoria Police, are committed to stopping wildlife crime in Victoria and preventing people from profiting from the illegal trade in our wildlife.
"A confidential report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or on-line at https://www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime/ will help authorities solve and stop Wildlife Crime" she said.
Both men were bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 15 July.
