Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic natural wonders, lush green jungles and diverse wildlife. One German tourist decided to take part of the wonder of his vacation experience home when he attempted to smuggle nearly 200 live animals out of the country in his luggage.
Among the animals discovered by Costa Rican authorities at San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport were at least 100 frogs, 42 lizards and nine snakes. The animals were concealed in plastic bags and take-out food containers and the 31-year-old German national was reportedly attempting to fly to Panama.
Authorities decided to check his bags and when he failed to present appropriate paperwork allowing for the transport of the animals, the man was arrested. According to Costa Rican law, he faces fines up to 40 times a monthly salary, or one to three years in prison, if convicted.
The business of illegal trafficking in exotic animals has reached $19 billion worldwide and has ties to the Russian mob, and in some cases, even Islamic extremist groups.
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