Fifty-nine baby crocodiles were just recently reported stolen from a reptile park in Australia’s Northern Territory.
The hatchlings went missing out on last month from the Crocodylus Park in Darwin’s CBD, where they were being held as part of a research study job focused on exploring the impacts of environment on crocodile growth. According to park owner Professor Grahame Webb, the animals are worth numerous hundred dollars each– and he’s “100 percent sure they were stolen.”
” It’s occurred to us previously,” he told VICE over the phone, keeping in mind that numerous infant crocodiles have actually been drawn from the park in the past. “At one phase we understand that it was young kids that were putting them in their backpack and undoubtedly selling them to someone– I don’t understand who– and one time we saw a lorry with 5 people parked outdoors.”
Teacher Webb stated he isn’t sure exactly why people keep stealing the park’s reptiles, but kept in mind that “crocs have actually become a business product: you can buy crocodile products, you can purchase stuffed crocodiles, you can buy things that are made from crocodiles.
” So I’m not sure if there’s some bandit out there, however my guess is that someone– probably interstate– has chosen they’re gon na do something with them,” he said. “What I want to know is who’s doing it, and what is occurring to [these animals] … What are you going to do with 59 crocs?”
Cops have investigated the incident, and verified to VICE that at the time of writing no arrests or charges had actually been made. They further stated that they “do not have information to recommend the supposed theft became part of an operation.”
For Teacher Webb, the whole thing remains a secret– although he’s persuaded that someone’s profiting from the thefts.
” Somebody’s buying them, somebody’s either delivering them out or using them here or transforming them into something here,” he told the ABC “The researcher in me want to know, who is doing what? You just feel ill.”
Follow Gavin on Twitter or Instagram
CBD Oil, Cannabinoid On A Budget Plan: 9 Tips From The Great Depression
Find Out More